GENERIC NAME: PERFLUTREN LIPID MICROSPHERE SUSPENSION - INJECTABLE (pur-FLOOT-rin)
BRAND NAME(S): Definity
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage
USES: This medication is used just before certain medical tests of the heart (e.g., echocardiograms) to help diagnose heart problems. Perflutren improves the ability of doctors to evaluate heart problems and can help clarify results of earlier tests.
HOW TO USE: Learn all preparation and usage instructions in the product package. If any of the information is unclear, consult your doctor or pharmacist. Inject this medication directly into a vein (IV bolus) or give over 5 to 15 minutes (IV infusion) in a saline solution usually just before the medical test; or use as directed by the doctor. After mixing the vial, if the product is not used within 5 minutes, gently turn the bottle upside down several times to make sure the suspension is mixed well before drawing into a syringe. Draw up the product suspension into a syringe by pulling back on the plunger; do not inject air into the vial. Doing so may inactivate the drug. This product should appear as a milky, white suspension. Before using, check this product visually for any unusual particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid. Learn how to store and discard needles and medical supplies safely. Consult your pharmacist.
SIDE EFFECTS: Headache, nausea, or flushing may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these serious side effects occurs: back pain, redness/swelling/irritation at the injection site, chest pain. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: irregular heartbeat, fever, joint pain, tingling or numbness of the hands/feet, stomach pain, vomiting, vision or hearing problems, bruising. An allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, dizziness, swelling, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
- Echocardiogram - Information on Echocardiogram including why you would need one, the types of echocardiograms, how to prepare and what to expect.
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