Norepinephrine, or Levophed Bitartrate, is a prescription medication used in the treatment of life-threatening low blood pressure and shock. According to Drugs.com, an online drug reference, norepinephrine mimics the body's natural production of adrenaline, causing the blood vessels to narrow, increasing the blood pressure and blood sugar levels. This medication is used in emergency situations such as cardio-pulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and extreme dehydration or blood loss.
Important Facts
According to Drugs.com, prior to taking norepinephrine patients should notify a health care provider of a history of high blood pressure, overactive thyroid, asthma or allergies to sulfa medications. Notify the care giver of adverse reactions such as muscle pain, weakness, numbness, difficulty breathing, a decrease in urine output, skin irritation, irregular heart beat, headache, confusion, blurred vision or problems with speech or balance.
Norepinephrine Overdose
Drugs.com states norepinephrine overdose may include decreased or slow heart beat, headache, blurred vision, difficulty concentrating, light sensitivity, stabbing chest or back pain, sweating, pale skin, vomiting or seizures.
Administration
Drugs.com states norepinephrine is administered into a large vein. Norepinephrine is usually given in a hospital or emergency situation and will be provided until the negative symptoms have subsided. It is possible to receive norepinephrine for several days while the body responds to the medication. According to Drugs.com, blood pressure and respirations are monitored frequently while patients receive this medication.
Side Effects
According to Drugs.com, immediate emergency help is needed if any of the following life-threatening side effects occur: hives, trouble breathing or swelling of face, lips or tongue. RxList.com, The Internet Drug Index, states norepinephrine can cause the entire body to have a decrease in oxygen, causing pain and weakness to muscles. Other side effects include irregular heart rate, anxiety and tissue death at the sight of injection.
Contraindications
According to RxList, norepinephrine should not be administered to patients with low blood pressure due to dehydration or blood loss until the fluid volume has been replaced. Norepinephrine should not be given to patients with a blood clot or patients receiving anesthesia gases such as cyclopropane and halothane.
Clinical Trials
The New England Journal of Medicine reports that norepinephrine is a safer medication choice when compared to dopamine, another popular drug of the same class. Clinical trials concluded use of norepinephrine resulted in fewer heart complications and fewer deaths in the treatment of shock.
Federal Approval
Norepinephrine is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of acute hypotension (low blood pressure) and shock.
