Phenylephrine (By injection)
fen-il-EF-rin
Treats low blood pressure during surgery, shock, or an allergic reaction.
Drug classes
Anesthetic Adjunct, Vasopressor (About this – PubMed Health)
Uses
Uses of This Medicine
Phenylephrine injection is used to treat hypotension (low blood pressure) that may occur during surgery.
This medicine is to be given only by or under the direct supervision of your doctor.
Other uses (PubMed Health)
How To Use
Injectable
A nurse or other health provider will give you this medicine. It is given as a shot under your skin, into a muscle, or into a vein.
Drugs and Foods to Avoid
Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.
Some medicines can affect how phenylephrine works. Tell your doctor if you are using amiodarone, aldosterone, atomoxetine, atropine, chlorpromazine, clonidine, guanfacine, hydrocortisone, methylergonovine, nifedipine, reserpine, an MAO inhibitor (MAOI), or a tricyclic antidepressant.
When Not To Use
This medicine is not right for everyone. You should not receive it if you had an allergic reaction to phenylephrine.
Warnings
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have kidney disease, liver disease, asthma, heart or blood vessel problems (such as heart failure, peripheral vascular disease, slow heartbeat), an overactive thyroid, or a history of angina. Tell your doctor if you have an allergy to sulfite medicines.
Your doctor will do lab tests at regular visits to check on the effects of this medicine. Keep all appointments.
Possible side effects
Summary More details
Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:
Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
Chest pain, trouble breathing
Fast, slow, or uneven heartbeat
Redness, pain, or discoloration at the injection site
Tingling in your hands or feet
If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:
Anxiety or restlessness
If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
More side effects of this drug
Brand names include
Neo-Synephrine HCl, Vazculep
There may be other brand names for this medicine.
