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What is the most important information I should know about norepinephrine?

Before receiving norepinephrine, tell your doctor if you have high blood pressure (hypertension), overactive thyroid, asthma, or a sulfite allergy.

Tell your caregivers right away about any serious side effects such as muscle pain or weakness, numb or cold feeling, trouble breathing, urinating less than usual, irritation of the skin or vein where the medicine is injected, uneven heart rate, sudden numbness or weakness, especially on one side of the body, or sudden headache, confusion, or problems with vision, speech, or balance. Symptoms of a norepinephrine overdose may include slow heart rate, severe headache, blurred vision, trouble concentrating, increased sensitivity to light, stabbing chest or back pain, pale skin, sweating, vomiting, or seizure (convulsions).

What is norepinephrine?

Norepinephrine is similar to adrenaline. It works by constricting (narrowing) the blood vessels and increasing blood pressure and blood glucose (sugar) levels.

Norepinephrine is used to treat life-threatening low blood pressure (hypotension) that can occur with certain medical conditions or surgical procedures. This medication is often used during CPR (cardio-pulmonary resuscitation).

Norepinephrine may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my health care provider before receiving norepinephrine?

Before receiving norepinephrine, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have:

• high blood pressure (hypertension);

• overactive thyroid; or

• asthma or a sulfite allergy;

If you have any of these conditions, you may not be able to receive norepinephrine, or you may need dosage adjustments or special tests during treatment.

FDA pregnancy category C. This medication may be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment. It not known whether norepinephrine passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not receive this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.