AMINOCAPROIC ACID - INJECTION (Amicar) side effects, medical uses, and drug interactions.

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GENERIC NAME: AMINOCAPROIC ACID - INJECTION (am-EE-no-kah-PRO-ick acid)

BRAND NAME(S): Amicar

USES: This medication is used to control bleeding. In an emergency, blood transfusions or other emergency measures may also be required.

HOW TO USE: This medication is given into a vein (IV), generally for about 8 hours or until the bleeding has been controlled. This medication should be given slowly to minimize side effects. Use as directed. Follow all instructions for proper mixing and dilution with the correct IV fluids. Consult your pharmacist. This drug product should be checked visually for particles or discoloration before use. If present, do not use the liquid.

SIDE EFFECTS: Nausea, headache, diarrhea, or fatigue may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor. Unlikely but report promptly: irregular or unusually slow pulse, pain/redness at the injection site. Very unlikely but report promptly: vision changes, one-sided weakness, ringing in ears or loss of hearing, chest pain, mental/mood changes, muscle pain or weakness, change in amount of urine, seizures, prolonged menstruation, ejaculation problems. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this medication, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor your medical history, including: any allergies, blood clotting disorders (e.g., hemophilia), kidney disease, bleeding within the brain, bleeding of the urinary system. A preservative (benzyl alcohol) which may be found in this product or in the liquid used to mix this product (diluent) can infrequently cause serious problems (sometimes death), if given in large amounts (more than 100 mg/kg daily) to an infant during the first months of life (neonatal period). The risk is also greater with low birth weight infants. Symptoms include sudden gasping, low blood pressure, or a very slow heartbeat. Report these symptoms to the doctor immediately should they occur. If possible, a preservative-free product should be used when treating neonates. This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known whether this drug is excreted into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.