Ephedrine Sulfate Solution for injection

What is this medicine?

EPHEDRINE (e FED rin) injection is used to treat low blood pressure in patients who received certain types of anesthesia, underwent a specific type of surgery, or received an overdose of a drug that can lower blood pressure. It is also sometimes used to treat symptoms of asthma, chronic bronchitis, emphysema, or other lung disease.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of the following conditions:

• blood vessel disease

• diabetes

• glaucoma

• heart disease

• high blood pressure

• over active thyroid

• an unusual or allergic reaction to ephedrine, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

• pregnant or trying to get pregnant

• breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is for injection under the skin, into a muscle or into a vein. It is given by a health care professional in a hospital or clinic setting.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

This does not apply.

What may interact with this medicine?

Do not take this medicine with any of the following medications:

• dihydroergotamine, ergotamine, ergoloid mesylates, methysergide, or ergot-type medication

• MAOIs like Carbex, Eldepryl, Marplan, Nardil, and Parnate

• medicines for colds and breathing difficulties

• sibutramine

This medicine may also interact with the following medications:

• digoxin

• diuretics

• medicines for heart disease or high blood pressure

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Your condition will be monitored carefully while you are receiving this medicine.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

• anxiety

• chest pain

• confusion

• dizziness, or fainting spells

• excessive sweating or inability to cool down after strenuous exercise

• fast or irregular heartbeat, palpitations

• hallucinations

• increased blood pressure

• pain or difficulty passing urine

• rapid or troubled breathing

• severe, persistent, or worsening headache

• tremor

• vomiting

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

• difficulty sleeping

• dry mouth

• headache

• loss of appetite

• nausea, stomach upset

• restlessness or nervousness

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medicine?

This drug is given in a hospital or clinic and will not be stored at home.