DOPAMINE - INJECTION (Intropin) side effects, medical uses, and drug interactions.

dopamine-injection, Intropin

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GENERIC NAME: DOPAMINE - INJECTION (DOPE-uh-meen)

BRAND NAME(S): Intropin

USES: This medication is used to treat heart conditions. The medication provides additional pumping strength by stimulating the heart muscle. In some patients it is used for improving kidney blood supply.

HOW TO USE: This drug is given by injection through a vein (larger arm vein is preferred) in an IV solution. The dilution and amount of medication given depend on the condition treated and how much fluid can be safely given. Follow all doctor and pharmacist instructions exactly. If MAO inhibitors (see Drug Interactions) have been used within the past 2-3 weeks, the starting dose of this drug should be no more than one-tenth of the usual dose. The contents of the IV solution should be examined for discoloration or particles before use. Solutions darker than slightly yellow or containing particles should be discarded. The infusion rate of this drug should be slowly reduced before stopping. Other IV solutions may be needed to prevent low blood pressure.

SIDE EFFECTS: Nausea, vomiting or headache may occur. If these persist or worsen, notify your doctor. Report promptly: any irregular or rapid heartbeat, chest pain, dizziness, trouble breathing. Unlikely but report promptly: any major change in the amount of urine, unusually cool skin, rapid change in skin color, painful arms or legs. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

PRECAUTIONS: Before using this drug, tell your doctor your medical history, including: any allergies (especially drug allergies), blood vessel disease, pheochromocytoma, irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias). Leakage of the IV solution into the tissue around the vein is to be avoided. Swelling or pain at the injection site must be promptly reported. Caution is advised when using this drug in the elderly because they may be more sensitive to the effects of the drug. 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. Because of the potential risk to the infant, breast-feeding while using this drug is not recommended. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.