Drug name: Accucaine Prescribing Information
Description:
Accucaine Prescribing Information
Package insert / product label
Generic name: lidocaine hydrochloride
Dosage form: injection, solution
Drug classes: Group I antiarrhythmics, Local injectable anesthetics
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Oct 1, 2022.
Disclaimer: This drug has not been found by FDA to be safe and effective, and this labeling has not been approved by FDA. Read further information about unapproved drugs.
On This Page
- Description
- Clinical Pharmacology
- Indications and Usage
- Contraindications
- Warnings
- Precautions
- Patient Counseling Information
- Drug Interactions
- Adverse Reactions/Side Effects
- Overdosage
- Dosage and Administration
- How Supplied/Storage and Handling
AQUEOUS SOLUTIONS FOR INFILTRATION
AND NERVE BLOCK
Ampul
Plastic Multiple-dose Fliptop Vial
Glass Teartop Vial
Rx only
DESCRIPTION
Lidocaine Hydrochloride Injection, USP is a sterile, nonpyrogenic solution of lidocaine hydrochloride in water for injection for parenteral administration in various concentrations with characteristics as follows:
Concentration |
0.5% |
1% |
1.5% |
2% |
mg/mL lidocaine HCl (anhyd.) |
5 |
10 |
15 |
20 |
mg/mL sodium chloride |
8 |
7 |
6.5 |
6 |
Multiple-dose vials contain 0.1% of methylparaben added as preservative. May contain sodium hydroxide and/or hydrochloric acid for pH adjustment. The pH is 6.5 (5.0 to 7.0). See HOW SUPPLIED section for various sizes and strengths.
Lidocaine is a local anesthetic of the amide type.
Lidocaine Hydrochloride, USP is chemically designated 2-(diethylamino)-N-(2,6-dimethylphenyl)-acetamide monohydrochloride monohydrate, a white powder freely soluble in water. The molecular weight is 288.82. It has the following structural formula:
The semi-rigid vial used for the plastic vials is fabricated from a specially formulated polyolefin. It is a copolymer of ethylene and propylene. The safety of the plastic has been confirmed by tests in animals according to USP biological standards for plastic containers. The container requires no vapor barrier to maintain the proper drug concentration.
CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY
Mechanism of action: Lidocaine stabilizes the neuronal membrane by inhibiting the ionic fluxes required for the initiation and conduction of impulses, thereby effecting local anesthetic action.
Hemodynamics: Excessive blood levels may cause changes in cardiac output, total peripheral resistance, and mean arterial pressure. With central neural blockade these changes may be attributable to block of autonomic fibers, a direct depressant effect of the local anesthetic agent on various components of the cardiovascular system and/or the beta-adrenergic receptor stimulating action of epinephrine when present. The net effect is normally a modest hypotension when the recommended dosages are not exceeded.
Pharmacokinetics and metabolism: Information derived from diverse formulations, concentrations and usages reveals that lidocaine is completely absorbed following parenteral administration, its rate of absorption depending, for example, upon various factors such as the site of administration and the presence or absence of a vasoconstrictor agent. Except for intravascular administration, the highest blood levels are obtained following intercostal nerve block and the lowest after subcutaneous administration.
The plasma binding of lidocaine is dependent on drug concentration, and the fraction bound decreases with increasing concentration. At concentrations of 1 to 4 mcg of free base per mL, 60 to 80 percent of lidocaine is protein bound. Binding is also dependent on the plasma concentration of the alpha-1-acid glycoprotein.
Lidocaine crosses the blood-brain and placental barriers, presumably by passive diffusion.
Lidocaine is metabolized rapidly by the liver, and metabolites and unchanged drug are excreted by the kidneys. Biotransformation includes oxidative N-dealkylation, ring hydroxylation, cleavage of the amide linkage, and conjugation. N-dealkylation, a major pathway of biotransformation, yields the metabolites monoethylglycinexylidide and glycinexylidide. The pharmacological/toxicological actions of these metabolites are similar to, but less potent than, those of lidocaine. Approximately 90% of lidocaine administered is excreted in the form of various metabolites, and less than 10% is excreted unchanged. The primary metabolite in urine is a conjugate of 4-hydroxy-2, 6-dimethylaniline.
The elimination half-life of lidocaine following an intravenous bolus injection is typically 1.5 to 2.0 hours. Because of the rapid rate at which lidocaine is metabolized, any condition that affects liver function may alter lidocaine kinetics. The half-life may be prolonged two-fold or more in patients with liver dysfunction. Renal dysfunction does not affect lidocaine kinetics but may increase the accumulation of metabolites.
Factors such as acidosis and the use of CNS stimulants and depressants affect the CNS levels of lidocaine required to produce overt systemic effects. Objective adverse manifestations become increasingly apparent with increasing venous plasma levels above 6.0 mcg free base per mL. In the rhesus monkey arterial blood levels of 18-21 mcg/mL have been shown to be threshold for convulsive activity.
INDICATIONS AND USAGE
Lidocaine Hydrochloride Injection, USP is indicated for production of local or regional anesthesia by infiltration techniques such as percutaneous injection and intravenous regional anesthesia by peripheral nerve block techniques such as brachial plexus and intercostal and by central neural techniques such as lumbar and caudal epidural blocks, when the accepted procedures for these techniques as described in standard textbooks are observed.
CONTRAINDICATIONS
Lidocaine is contraindicated in patients with a known history of hypersensitivity to local anesthetics of the amide type.
WARNINGS
LIDOCAINE HYDROCHLORIDE INJECTION, FOR INFILTRATION AND NERVE BLOCK, SHOULD BE EMPLOYED ONLY BY CLINICIANS WHO ARE WELL VERSED IN DIAGNOSIS AND MANAGEMENT OF DOSE-RELATED TOXICITY AND OTHER ACUTE EMERGENCIES THAT MIGHT ARISE FROM THE BLOCK TO BE EMPLOYED AND THEN ONLY AFTER ENSURING THE IMMEDIATE AVAILABILITY OF OXYGEN, OTHER RESUSCITATIVE DRUGS, CARDIOPULMONARY EQUIPMENT, AND THE PERSONNEL NEEDED FOR PROPER MANAGEMENT OF TOXIC REACTIONS AND RELATED EMERGENCIES (See also ADVERSE REACTIONS and PRECAUTIONS). DELAY IN PROPER MANAGEMENT OF DOSE-RELATED TOXICITY, UNDERVENTILATION FROM ANY CAUSE AND/OR ALTERED SENSITIVITY MAY LEAD TO THE DEVELOPMENT OF ACIDOSIS, CARDIAC ARREST AND, POSSIBLY, DEATH.
Intra-articular infusions of local anesthetics following arthroscopic and other surgical procedures is an unapproved use, and there have been post-marketing reports of chondrolysis in patients receiving such infusions. The majority of reported cases of chondrolysis have involved the shoulder joint; cases of gleno-humeral chondrolysis have been described in pediatric and adult patients following intra-articular infusions of local anesthetics with and without epinephrine for periods of 48 to 72 hours. There is insufficient information to determine whether shorter infusion periods are not associated with these findings. The time of onset of symptoms, such as joint pain, stiffness and loss of motion can be variable, but may begin as early as the 2nd month after surgery. Currently, there is no effective treatment for chondrolysis; patients who experienced chondrolysis have required additional diagnostic and therapeutic procedures and some required arthroplasty or shoulder replacement.
To avoid intravascular injection, aspiration should be performed before the local anesthetic solution is injected. The needle must be repositioned until no return of blood can be elicited by aspiration. Note, however, that the absence of blood in the syringe does not guarantee that intravascular injection has been avoided.
Local anesthetic solutions containing antimicrobial preservatives (e.g., methylparaben) should not be used for epidural or spinal anesthesia because the safety of these agents has not been established with regard to intrathecal injection, either intentional or accidental.
Methemoglobinemia
Cases of methemoglobinemia have been reported in association with local anesthetic use. Although all patients are at risk for methemoglobinemia, patients with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency, congenital or idiopathic methemoglobinemia, cardiac or pulmonary compromise, infants under 6 months of age, and concurrent exposure to oxidizing agents or their metabolites are more susceptible to developing clinical manifestations of the condition. If local anesthetics must be used in these patients, close monitoring for symptoms and signs of methemoglobinemia is recommended.
Signs and symptoms of methemoglobinemia may occur immediately or may be delayed some hours after exposure and are characterized by a cyanotic skin discoloration and abnormal coloration of the blood. Methemoglobin levels may continue to rise; therefore, immediate treatment is required to avert more serious central nervous system and cardiovascular adverse effects, including seizures, coma, arrhythmias, and death. Discontinue lidocaine and/or bupivacaine and any other oxidizing agents. Depending on the severity of the symptoms, patients may respond to supportive care, i.e., oxygen therapy, hydration. More severe symptoms may require treatment with methylene blue, exchange transfusion, or hyperbaric oxygen.
PRECAUTIONS
General:
The safety and effectiveness of lidocaine depend on proper dosage, correct technique, adequate precautions, and readiness for emergencies. Standard textbooks should be consulted for specific techniques and precautions for various regional anesthetic procedures.
Resuscitative equipment, oxygen, and other resuscitative drugs should be available for immediate use. (See WARNINGS and ADVERSE REACTIONS). The lowest dosage that results in effective anesthesia should be used to avoid high plasma levels and serious adverse effects. Syringe aspirations should also be performed before and during each supplemental injection when using indwelling catheter techniques. During the administration of epidural anesthesia, it is recommended that a test dose be administered initially and that the patient be monitored for central nervous system toxicity and cardiovascular toxicity, as well as for signs of unintended intrathecal administration before proceeding. When clinical conditions permit, consideration should be given to employing local anesthetic solutions that contain epinephrine for the test dose because circulatory changes compatible with epinephrine may also serve as a warning sign of unintended intravascular injection. An intravascular injection is still possible even if aspirations for blood are negative. Repeated doses of lidocaine may cause significant increases in blood levels with each repeated dose because of slow accumulation of the drug or its metabolites. Tolerance to elevated blood levels varies with the status of the patient. Debilitated, elderly patients, acutely ill patients and children should be given reduced doses commensurate with their age and physical condition. Lidocaine should also be used with caution in patients with severe shock or heart block. Lumbar and caudal epidural anesthesia should be used with extreme caution in persons with the following conditions: existing neurological disease, spinal deformities, septicemia and severe hypertension.
Local anesthetic solutions containing a vasoconstrictor should be used cautiously and in carefully circumscribed quantities in areas of the body supplied by end arteries or having otherwise compromised blood supply. Patients with peripheral vascular disease and those with hypertensive vascular disease may exhibit exaggerated vasoconstrictor response. Ischemic injury or necrosis may result. Preparations containing a vasoconstrictor should be used with caution in patients during or following the administration of potent general anesthetic agents, since cardiac arrhythmias may occur under such conditions.
Careful and constant monitoring of cardiovascular and respiratory (adequacy of ventilation) vital signs and the patient’s state of consciousness should be accomplished after each local anesthetic injection. It should be kept in mind at such times that restlessness, anxiety, tinnitus, dizziness, blurred vision, tremors, depression or drowsiness may be early warning signs of central nervous system toxicity.
Since amide-type local anesthetics are metabolized by the liver, lidocaine should be used with caution in patients with hepatic disease. Patients with severe hepatic disease, because of their inability to metabolize local anesthetics normally, are at greater risk of developing toxic plasma concentrations. Lidocaine should also be used with caution in patients with impaired cardiovascular function since they may be less able to compensate for functional changes associated with the prolongation of A-V conduction produced by these drugs. Many drugs used during the conduct of anesthesia are considered potential triggering agents for familial malignant hyperthermia. Since it is not known whether amide-type local anesthetics may trigger this reaction and since the need for supplemental general anesthesia cannot be predicted in advance, it is suggested that a standard protocol for the management of malignant hyperthermia should be available. Early unexplained signs of tachycardia, tachypnea, labile blood pressure and metabolic acidosis may precede temperature elevation. Successful outcome is dependent on early diagnosis, prompt discontinuance of the suspect triggering agent(s) and institution of treatment, including oxygen therapy, indicated supportive measures and dantrolene (consult dantrolene sodium intravenous package insert before using).
Proper tourniquet technique, as described in publications and standard textbooks, is essential in the performance of intravenous regional anesthesia. Solutions containing epinephrine or other vasoconstrictors should not be used for this technique.
Lidocaine should be used with caution in persons with known drug sensitivities. Patients allergic to para-aminobenzoic acid derivatives (procaine, tetracaine, benzocaine, etc.) have not shown cross sensitivity to lidocaine.
Use in the Head and Neck Area: Small doses of local anesthetics injected into the head and neck area, including retrobulbar, dental and stellate ganglion blocks, may produce adverse reactions similar to systemic toxicity seen with unintentional intravascular injections of larger doses. Confusion, convulsions, respiratory depression and/or respiratory arrest and cardiovascular stimulation or depression have been reported. These reactions may be due to intra-arterial injections of the local anesthetic with retrograde flow to the cerebral circulation. Patients receiving these blocks should have their circulation and respiration monitored and be constantly observed. Resuscitative equipment and personnel for treating adverse reactions should be immediately available. Dosage recommendations should not be exceeded. (See DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION).
Information for Patients:
When appropriate, patients should be informed in advance that they may experience temporary loss of sensation and motor activity, usually in the lower half of the body following proper administration of epidural anesthesia.
Inform patients that use of local anesthetics may cause methemoglobinemia, a serious condition that must be treated promptly. Advise patients or caregivers to stop use and seek immediate medical attention if they or someone in their care experience the following signs or symptoms: pale, gray, or blue colored skin (cyanosis); headache; rapid heart rate; shortness of breath; lightheadedness; or fatigue.
Clinically Significant Drug Interactions:
The administration of local anesthetic solutions containing epinephrine or norepinephrine to patients receiving monoamine oxidase inhibitors or tricyclic antidepressants may produce severe prolonged hypertension.
Phenothiazines and butyrophenones may reduce or reverse the pressor effect of epinephrine.
Concurrent use of these agents should generally be avoided. In situations when concurrent therapy is necessary, careful patient monitoring is essential.
Concurrent administration of vasopressor drugs (for the treatment of hypotension related to obstetric blocks) and ergot-type oxytoxic drugs may cause severe persistent hypertension or cerebrovascular accidents.
Patients that are administered local anesthetics may be at increased risk of developing methemoglobinemia when concurrently exposed to the following oxidizing agents:
Class |
Examples |
Nitrates/Nitrites |
nitroglycerin, nitroprusside, nitric oxide, nitrous oxide |
Local anesthetics |
benzocaine, lidocaine, bupivacaine, mepivacaine, tetracaine, prilocaine, procaine, articaine, ropivacaine |
Antineoplastic agents |
cyclophosphamide, flutamide, rasburicase, ifosfamide, hydroxyurea |
Antibiotics |
dapsone, sulfonamides, nitrofurantoin, para-aminosalicylic acid |
Antimalarials |
chloroquine, primaquine |
Anticonvulsants |
phenytoin, sodium valproate, phenobarbital |
Other drugs |
acetaminophen, metoclopramide, sulfa drugs (i.e., sulfasalazine), quinine |
Drug Laboratory Test Interactions:
The intramuscular injection of lidocaine may result in an increase in creatine phosphokinase levels. Thus, the use of this enzyme determination without isoenzyme separation as a diagnostic test for the presence of acute myocardial infarction may be compromised by the intramuscular injection of lidocaine.
Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility:
Studies of lidocaine in animals to evaluate the carcinogenic and mutagenic potential or the effect on fertility have not been conducted.
Pregnancy:
Teratogenic Effects. Pregnancy Category B. Reproduction studies have been performed in rats at doses up to 6.6 times the human dose and have revealed no evidence of harm to the fetus caused by lidocaine. There are, however, no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Animal reproduction studies are not always predictive of human response. General consideration should be given to this fact before administering lidocaine to women of childbearing potential, especially during early pregnancy when maximum organogenesis takes place.
Labor and Delivery:
Local anesthetics rapidly cross the placenta and when used for epidural, paracervical, pudendal or caudal block anesthesia, can cause varying degrees of maternal, fetal and neonatal toxicity (See CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY— Pharmacokinetics). The potential for toxicity depends upon the procedure performed, the type and amount of drug used, and the technique of drug administration. Adverse reactions in the parturient, fetus and neonate involve alterations of the central nervous system peripheral vascular tone and cardiac function.
Maternal hypotension has resulted from regional anesthesia. Local anesthetics produce vasodilation by blocking sympathetic nerves. Elevating the patient’s legs and positioning her on her left side will help prevent decreases in blood pressure. The fetal heart rate also should be monitored continuously, and electronic fetal monitoring is highly advisable.
Epidural, spinal, paracervical, or pudendal anesthesia may alter the forces of parturition through changes in uterine contractility or maternal expulsive efforts. In one study, paracervical block anesthesia was associated with a decrease in the mean duration of first stage labor and facilitation of cervical dilation. However, spinal and epidural anesthesia have also been reported to prolong the second stage of labor by removing the parturient’s reflex urge to bear down or by interfering with motor function. The use of obstetrical anesthesia may increase the need for forceps assistance.
The use of some local anesthetic drug products during labor and delivery may be followed by diminished muscle strength and tone for the first day or two of life. The long-term significance of these observations is unknown. Fetal bradycardia may occur in 20 to 30 percent of patients receiving paracervical nerve block anesthesia with the amide-type local anesthetics and may be associated with fetal acidosis. Fetal heart rate should always be monitored during paracervical anesthesia. The physician should weigh the possible advantages against risks when considering paracervical block in prematurity, toxemia of pregnancy and fetal distress. Careful adherence to recommended dosage is of the utmost importance in obstetrical paracervical block. Failure to achieve adequate analgesia with recommended doses should arouse suspicion of intravascular or fetal intracranial injection. Cases compatible with unintended fetal intracranial injection of local anesthetic solution have been reported following intended paracervical or pudendal block or both. Babies so affected present with unexplained neonatal depression at birth, which correlates with high local anesthetic serum levels, and often manifest seizures within six hours. Prompt use of supportive measures combined with forced urinary excretion of the local anesthetic has been used successfully to manage this complication.
Case reports of maternal convulsions and cardiovascular collapse following use of some local anesthetics for paracervical block in early pregnancy (as anesthesia for elective abortion) suggest that systemic absorption under these circumstances may be rapid. The recommended maximum dose of each drug should not be exceeded. Injection should be made slowly and with frequent aspiration. Allow a 5-minute interval between sides.
Nursing Mothers:
It is not known whether this drug is excreted in human milk. Because many drugs are excreted in human milk, caution should be exercised when lidocaine is administered to a nursing woman.
Pediatric Use:
Dosages in pediatric patients should be reduced, commensurate with age, body weight and physical condition. See DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION.
Adverse Reactions
Systemic: Adverse experiences following the administration of lidocaine are similar in nature to those observed with other amide local anesthetic agents. These adverse experiences are, in general, dose-related and may result from high plasma levels caused by excessive dosage, rapid absorption or inadvertent intravascular injection, or may result from a hypersensitivity, idiosyncrasy or diminished tolerance on the part of the patient. Serious adverse experiences are generally systemic in nature. The following types are those most commonly reported:
Central Nervous System: CNS manifestations are excitatory and/or depressant and may be characterized by lightheadedness, nervousness, apprehension, euphoria, confusion, dizziness, drowsiness, tinnitus, blurred or double vision, vomiting, sensations of heat, cold or numbness, twitching, tremors, convulsions, unconsciousness, respiratory depression and arrest. The excitatory manifestations may be very brief or may not occur at all, in which case the first manifestation of toxicity may be drowsiness merging into unconsciousness and respiratory arrest.
Drowsiness following the administration of lidocaine is usually an early sign of a high blood level of the drug and may occur as a consequence of rapid absorption.
Cardiovascular System: Cardiovascular manifestations are usually depressant and are characterized by bradycardia, hypotension, and cardiovascular collapse, which may lead to cardiac arrest.
Allergic: Allergic reactions are characterized by cutaneous lesions, urticaria, edema or anaphylactoid reactions. Allergic reactions may occur as a result of sensitivity either to local anesthetic agents or to the methylparaben used as a preservative in multiple dose vials. Allergic reactions as a result of sensitivity to lidocaine are extremely rare and, if they occur, should be managed by conventional means. The detection of sensitivity by skin testing is of doubtful value.
Neurologic: The incidences of adverse reactions associated with the use of local anesthetics may be related to the total dose of local anesthetic administered and are also dependent upon the particular drug used, the route of administration and the physical status of the patient. In a prospective review of 10,440 patients who received lidocaine for spinal anesthesia, the incidences of adverse reactions were reported to be about 3 percent each for positional headaches, hypotension and backache; 2 percent for shivering; and less than 1 percent each for peripheral nerve symptoms, nausea, respiratory inadequacy and double vision. Many of these observations may be related to local anesthetic techniques, with or without a contribution from the local anesthetic.
In the practice of caudal or lumbar epidural block, occasional unintentional penetration of the subarachnoid space by the catheter may occur. Subsequent adverse effects may depend partially on the amount of drug administered subdurally.
These may include spinal block of varying magnitude (including total spinal block), hypotension secondary to spinal block, loss of bladder and bowel control, and loss of perineal sensation and sexual function. Persistent motor, sensory and/or autonomic (sphincter control) deficit of some lower spinal segments with slow recovery (several months) or incomplete recovery have been reported in rare instances when caudal or lumbar epidural block has been attempted. Backache and headache have also been noted following use of these anesthetic procedures.
There have been reported cases of permanent injury to extraocular muscles requiring surgical repair following retrobulbar administration.
OVERDOSAGE
Acute emergencies from local anesthetics are generally related to high plasma levels encountered during therapeutic use of local anesthetics or to unintended subarachnoid injection of local anesthetic solution (see ADVERSE REACTIONS, WARNINGS and PRECAUTIONS).
Management of Local Anesthetic Emergencies: The first consideration is prevention, best accomplished by careful monitoring of cardiovascular and respiratory vital signs and the patient’s state of consciousness after each local anesthetic injection. At the first sign of change, oxygen should be administered.
The first step in the management of convulsions, as well as underventilation or apnea due to unintended subarachnoid injection of drug solution, consists of immediate attention to the maintenance of a patent airway and assisted or controlled ventilation with oxygen and a delivery system capable of permitting immediate positive airway pressure by mask. Immediately after the institution of these ventilatory measures, the adequacy of the circulation should be evaluated, keeping in mind that drugs used to treat convulsions sometimes depress the circulation when administered intravenously. Should convulsions persist despite adequate respiratory support, and if the status of the circulation permits, small increments of an ultra-short acting barbiturate (such as thiopental or thiamylal) or a benzodiazepine (such as diazepam) may be administered intravenously. The clinician should be familiar, prior to use of local anesthetics, with these anticonvulsant drugs. Supportive treatment of circulatory depression may require administration of intravenous fluids and, when appropriate, a vasopressor as directed by the clinical situation (e.g., ephedrine).
If not treated immediately, both convulsions and cardiovascular depression can result in hypoxia, acidosis, bradycardia, arrhythmias and cardiac arrest. Underventilation or apnea due to unintentional subarachnoid injection of local anesthetic solution may produce these same signs and also lead to cardiac arrest if ventilatory support is not instituted. If cardiac arrest should occur standard cardiopulmonary resuscitative measures should be instituted.
Endotracheal intubation, employing drugs and techniques familiar to the clinician, may be indicated, after initial administration of oxygen by mask, if difficulty is encountered in the maintenance of a patent airway or if prolonged ventilatory support (assisted or controlled) is indicated.
Dialysis is of negligible value in the treatment of acute overdosage with lidocaine.
The oral LD 50 of lidocaine HCl in non-fasted female rats is 459 (346−773) mg/kg (as the salt) and 214 (159−324) mg/kg (as the salt) in fasted female rats.
DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION
Table 1 (Recommended Dosages) summarizes the recommended volumes and concentrations of Lidocaine Hydrochloride Injection, USP for various types of anesthetic procedures. The dosages suggested in this table are for normal healthy adults and refer to the use of epinephrine-free solutions. When larger volumes are required only solutions containing epinephrine should be used, except in those cases where vasopressor drugs may be contraindicated.
There have been adverse event reports of chondrolysis in patients receiving intra-articular infusions of local anesthetics following arthroscopic and other surgical procedures. Lidocaine is not approved for this use (see WARNINGS and DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION).
These recommended doses serve only as a guide to the amount of anesthetic required for most routine procedures. The actual volumes and concentrations to be used depend on a number of factors such as type and extent of surgical procedure, depth of anesthesia and degree of muscular relaxation required, duration of anesthesia required, and the physical condition of the patient. In all cases the lowest concentration and smallest dose that will produce the desired result should be given. Dosages should be reduced for children and for elderly and debilitated patients and patients with cardiac and/or liver disease.
The onset of anesthesia, the duration of anesthesia and the degree of muscular relaxation are proportional to the volume and concentration (i.e., total dose) of local anesthetic used. Thus, an increase in volume and concentration of Lidocaine Hydrochloride Injection will decrease the onset of anesthesia, prolong the duration of anesthesia, provide a greater degree of muscular relaxation and increase the segmental spread of anesthesia. However, increasing the volume and concentration of Lidocaine Hydrochloride Injection may result in a more profound fall in blood pressure when used in epidural anesthesia. Although the incidence of side effects with lidocaine is quite low, caution should be exercised when employing large volumes and concentrations, since the incidence of side effects is directly proportional to the total dose of local anesthetic agent injected.
For intravenous regional anesthesia, only the 50 mL single-dose vial containing 0.5% Lidocaine Hydrochloride Injection, USP should be used.
Epidural Anesthesia
For epidural anesthesia, only the following available specific products of Lidocaine Hydrochloride Injection by Hospira are recommended:
1%. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 mL single-dose teartop vials
1.5%. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 mL single-dose ampuls
2%. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 mL single-dose ampuls
Although these solutions are intended specifically for epidural anesthesia, they may also be used for infiltration and peripheral nerve block provided they are employed as single dose units. These solutions contain no bacteriostatic agent. In epidural anesthesia, the dosage varies with the number of dermatomes to be anesthetized (generally 2−3 mL of the indicated concentration per dermatome).
Caudal and Lumbar Epidural Block: As a precaution against the adverse experiences sometimes observed following unintentional penetration of the subarachnoid space, a test dose such as 2−3 mL of 1.5% lidocaine hydrochloride should be administered at least 5 minutes prior to injecting the total volume required for a lumbar or caudal epidural block. The test dose should be repeated if the patient is moved in a manner that may have displaced the catheter. Epinephrine, if contained in the test dose (10−15 mcg have been suggested), may serve as a warning of unintentional intravascular injection. If injected into a blood vessel, this amount of epinephrine is likely to produce a transient "epinephrine response" within 45 seconds, consisting of an increase in heart rate and systolic blood pressure, circumoral pallor, palpitations and nervousness in the unsedated patient. The sedated patient may exhibit only a pulse rate increase of 20 or more beats per minute for 15 or more seconds. Patients on beta-blockers may not manifest changes in heart rate, but blood pressure monitoring can detect an evanescent rise in systolic blood pressure. Adequate time should be allowed for onset of anesthesia after administration of each test dose. The rapid injection of a large volume of Lidocaine Hydrochloride Injection through the catheter should be avoided, and, when feasible, fractional doses should be administered.
In the event of the known injection of a large volume of local anesthetic solutions into the subarachnoid space, after suitable resuscitation and if the catheter is in place, consider attempting the recovery of drug by draining a moderate amount of cerebrospinal fluid (such as 10 mL) through the epidural catheter.
Maximum Recommended Dosages
NOTE: The products accompanying this insert do not contain epinephrine.
Adults: For normal healthy adults, the individual maximum recommended dose of lidocaine HCl with epinephrine should not exceed 7 mg/kg (3.5 mg/lb) of body weight and in general it is recommended that the maximum total dose not exceed 500 mg. When used without epinephrine, the maximum individual dose should not exceed 4.5 mg/kg (2 mg/lb) of body weight and in general it is recommended that the maximum total dose does not exceed 300 mg. For continuous epidural or caudal anesthesia, the maximum recommended dosage should not be administered at intervals of less than 90 minutes. When continuous lumbar or caudal epidural anesthesia is used for non-obstetrical procedures, more drug may be administered if required to produce adequate anesthesia.
The maximum recommended dose per 90 minute period of lidocaine hydrochloride for paracervical block in obstetrical patients and non-obstetrical patients is 200 mg total. One-half of the total dose is usually administered to each side. Inject slowly five minutes between sides. (See also discussion of paracervical block in PRECAUTIONS).
For intravenous regional anesthesia, the dose administered should not exceed 4 mg/kg in adults.
Children: It is difficult to recommend a maximum dose of any drug for children, since this varies as a function of age and weight. For children over 3 years of age who have a normal lean body mass and normal body development, the maximum dose is determined by the child’s age and weight. For example, in a child of 5 years weighing 50 lbs., the dose of lidocaine HCl should not exceed 75 — 100 mg (1.5 — 2 mg/lb). The use of even more dilute solutions (i.e., 0.25 — 0.5%) and total dosages not to exceed 3 mg/kg (1.4 mg/lb) are recommended for induction of intravenous regional anesthesia in children.
In order to guard against systemic toxicity, the lowest effective concentration and lowest effective dose should be used at all times. In some cases it will be necessary to dilute available concentrations with 0.9% sodium chloride injection in order to obtain the required final concentration.
Parenteral drug products should be inspected visually for particulate matter and discoloration prior to administration whenever the solution and container permit. Solutions that are discolored and/or contain particulate matter should not be used.
Table 1 |
|||
Recommended Dosages of Lidocaine Hydrochloride Injection, USP for Various Anesthetic |
|||
Procedures in Normal Healthy Adults |
|||
Lidocaine Hydrochloride Injection, USP (without Epinephrine) |
|||
Procedure |
Conc. (%) |
Vol. (mL) |
Total Dose (mg) |
Infiltration |
|||
Percutaneous |
0.5 or 1.0 |
1−60 |
5−300 |
Intravenous Regional |
0.5 |
10−60 |
50−300 |
Peripheral Nerve Blocks, e.g. |
|||
Brachial |
1.5 |
15−20 |
225−300 |
Dental |
2.0 |
1−5 |
20−100 |
Intercostal |
1.0 |
3 |
30 |
Paravertebral |
1.0 |
3−5 |
30−50 |
Pudendal (each side) |
1.0 |
10 |
100 |
Paracervical |
|||
Obstetrical Analgesia |
|||
(each side) |
1.0 |
10 |
100 |
Sympathetic Nerve Blocks, e.g. |
|||
Cervical (stellate ganglion) |
1.0 |
5 |
50 |
Lumbar |
1.0 |
5−10 |
50−100 |
Central Neural Blocks |
|||
Epidural* |
|||
Thoracic |
1.0 |
20−30 |
200−300 |
Lumbar |
|||
Analgesia |
1.0 |
25−30 |
250−300 |
Anesthesia |
1.5 |
15−20 |
225−300 |
2.0 |
10−15 |
200−300 |
|
Caudal |
|||
Obstetrical Analgesia |
1.0 |
20−30 |
200−300 |
Surgical Anesthesia |
1.5 |
15−20 |
225−300 |
*Dose determined by number of dermatomes to be anesthetized (2 to 3 mL/dermatome). |
THE ABOVE SUGGESTED CONCENTRATIONS AND VOLUMES SERVE ONLY AS A GUIDE. OTHER VOLUMES AND CONCENTRATIONS MAY BE USED PROVIDED THE TOTAL MAXIMUM RECOMMENDED DOSE IS NOT EXCEEDED.
Sterilization, Storage and Technical Procedures: Disinfecting agents containing heavy metals, which cause release of respective ions (mercury, zinc, copper, etc.) should not be used for skin or mucous membrane disinfection as they have been related to incidence of swelling and edema. When chemical disinfection of multi-dose vials is desired, either isopropyl alcohol (91%) or 70% ethyl alcohol is recommended. Many commercially available brands of rubbing alcohol, as well as solutions of ethyl alcohol not of USP grade, contain denaturants which are injurious to rubber and, therefore, are not to be used. It is recommended that chemical disinfection be accomplished by wiping the vial stopper thoroughly with cotton or gauze that has been moistened with the recommended alcohol just prior to use.
HOW SUPPLIED
Lidocaine Hydrochloride Injection, USP is supplied as follows:
NDC |
Container |
Concentration |
Size |
Total (mg) |
Single-dose: |
||||
0409-4278-01 |
Glass Teartop Vial |
0.5% (5 mg/mL) |
50 mL |
250 |
0409-4713-01 |
Glass Ampul |
1% (10 mg/mL) |
2 mL (bulk – 400 units) |
20 |
0409-4713-02 |
Glass Ampul |
1% (10 mg/mL) |
5 mL |
50 |
0409-4713-05 |
Glass Ampul |
1% (10 mg/mL) |
5 mL (bulk – 400 units) |
50 |
0409-4713-20 |
Glass Ampul |
1% (10 mg/mL) |
20 mL |
200 |
0409-4713-32 |
Glass Ampul |
1% (10 mg/mL) |
2 mL |
20 |
0409-4713-62 |
Glass Ampul |
1% (10 mg/mL) |
2 mL (bulk – 800 units) |
20 |
0409-4713-65 |
Glass Ampul |
1% (10 mg/mL) |
5 mL (bulk – 800 units) |
50 |
0409-4279-02 |
Glass Teartop Vial |
1% (10 mg/mL) |
30 mL |
300 |
0409-4270-01 |
Sterile Glass Teartop Vial |
1% (10 mg/mL) |
30 mL |
300 |
0409-4776-01 |
Glass Ampul |
1.5% (15 mg/mL) |
20 mL |
300 |
0409-4056-01 |
Sterile Glass Ampul |
1.5% (15 mg/mL) |
20 mL |
300 |
0409-4282-01 |
Glass Ampul |
2% (20 mg/mL) |
2 mL |
40 |
0409-4282-02 |
Glass Ampul |
2% (20 mg/mL) |
10 mL |
200 |
Multiple-dose: |
||||
0409-4275-01 |
Plastic Fliptop Vial |
0.5% (5 mg/mL) |
50 mL |
250 |
0409-4276-01 |
Plastic Fliptop Vial |
1% (10 mg/mL) |
20 mL |
200 |
0409-4276-02 |
Plastic Fliptop Vial |
1% (10 mg/mL) |
50 mL |
500 |
0409-4277-01 |
Plastic Fliptop Vial |
2% (20 mg/mL) |
20 mL |
400 |
0409-4277-02 |
Plastic Fliptop Vial |
2% (20 mg/mL) |
50 mL |
1000 |
Single-dose products are preservative-free.
Store at 20 to 25°C (68 to 77°F). [See USP Controlled Room Temperature.]
Lidocaine Hydrochloride Injection, USP solutions packaged in ampuls and glass teartop vials may be autoclaved one time only. Autoclave at 15 pounds pressure, 121°C (250°F) for 15 minutes. DO NOT AUTOCLAVE PRODUCT IN PLASTIC VIALS.
Revised: February, 2010
Printed in USA EN-2421
Hospira, Inc., Lake Forest, IL 60045 USA
NDC: 76420-715-01 Rx Only
Accucaine™
Kit Contains
1 Lidocaine HCl Injection, USP 1% (5mL)
1 Ultrasound Transmission Gel (20g)
1 Gebauer''s Pain Ease ® (30mL)
1 BD Integra Syringe with Retracting BD PrecisionGlide™ Needle (3mL 23G x 1”)
1 BD Integra Syringe with Retracting BD PrecisionGlide™ Needle (3mL 25G x 1”)
1 Pair Nitrile Powder Free Sterile Gloves (M)
1 Drape
1 Adhesive Bandage
1 Isopropyl Alcohol 70% Prep Pad
5 Non-sterile 4x4 gauze
1 Face mask
1 Dose
Single Use Only
Distributed by Enovachem™
PHARMACEUTICALS
Torrance, CA 90501
Accucaine lidocaine hydrochloride injection, solution |
|||||||||||
|
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|
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|
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|
Labeler - Asclemed USA, Inc. (059888437) |
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Medical Disclaimer
Accuneb (Inhalation)
Generic name: albuterol (inhalation route) [ al-BUE-ter-ol ]
Drug class: Adrenergic bronchodilators
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Jan 7, 2023.
Commonly used brand name(s)
In the U.S.
- Accuneb
- ProAir Digihaler
- ProAir HFA
- Proair Respiclick
- Proventil
- Proventil HFA
- ReliOn Ventolin HFA
- Ventolin
- Ventolin HFA
In Canada
- Alti-Salbutamol Inhalation Aerosol
- Apo-Salvent
- Salbutamol
- Salbutamol Nebuamp
- Salbutamol Respirator Solution
- Ventolin Inhaler
- Ventolin Nebules P.F.
- Ventolin Respirator
- Ventolin Rotacaps
Available Dosage Forms:
- Powder
- Solution
- Suspension
Therapeutic Class: Bronchodilator
Pharmacologic Class: Beta-2 Adrenergic Agonist
Uses for Accuneb
Albuterol is used to treat or prevent bronchospasm in patients with asthma, bronchitis, emphysema, and other lung diseases. It is also used to prevent bronchospasm caused by exercise.
Albuterol belongs to the family of medicines known as adrenergic bronchodilators. Adrenergic bronchodilators are medicines that are breathed in through the mouth to open up the bronchial tubes (air passages) in the lungs. They relieve cough, wheezing, and trouble breathing by increasing the flow of air through the bronchial tubes.
This medicine is available only with your doctor''s prescription.
Before using Accuneb
In deciding to use a medicine, the risks of taking the medicine must be weighed against the good it will do. This is a decision you and your doctor will make. For this medicine, the following should be considered:
Allergies
Tell your doctor if you have ever had any unusual or allergic reaction to this medicine or any other medicines. Also tell your health care professional if you have any other types of allergies, such as to foods, dyes, preservatives, or animals. For non-prescription products, read the label or package ingredients carefully.
Pediatric
Appropriate studies performed to date have not demonstrated pediatric-specific problems that would limit the usefulness of ProAir® Digihaler™, ProAir® HFA, ProAir® Respiclick®, Proventil® HFA, and Ventolin® HFA in children 4 years of age and older and Accuneb® in children 2 years of age and older. However, safety and efficacy have not been established for ProAir® Digihaler™, ProAir® HFA, ProAir® Respiclick®, Proventil® HFA, and Ventolin® HFA in children younger than 4 years of age and Accuneb® in children younger than 2 years of age.
Geriatric
Appropriate studies have not been performed on the relationship of age to the effects of Proventil® HFA in the geriatric population. However, elderly patients are more likely to have age-related heart problems, which may require caution in the dose for patients receiving Proventil® HFA.
Appropriate studies performed to date have not demonstrated geriatric-specific problems that would limit the usefulness of ProAir® Digihaler™, ProAir® HFA, ProAir® Respiclick®, and Ventolin® HFA in geriatric patients. However, elderly patients are more likely to have age-related heart, kidney, or liver problems, which may require caution and an adjustment in the dose for patients receiving ProAir® Digihaler™, ProAir® HFA, ProAir® Respiclick®, and Ventolin® HFA.
No information is available on the relationship of age to the effects of albuterol inhalation solution (eg, Accuneb®) in geriatric patients.
Breastfeeding
There are no adequate studies in women for determining infant risk when using this medication during breastfeeding. Weigh the potential benefits against the potential risks before taking this medication while breastfeeding.
Interactions with medicines
Although certain medicines should not be used together at all, in other cases two different medicines may be used together even if an interaction might occur. In these cases, your doctor may want to change the dose, or other precautions may be necessary. When you are taking this medicine, it is especially important that your healthcare professional know if you are taking any of the medicines listed below. The following interactions have been selected on the basis of their potential significance and are not necessarily all-inclusive.
Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is usually not recommended, but may be required in some cases. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.
- Acebutolol
- Amineptine
- Amitriptyline
- Amitriptylinoxide
- Amoxapine
- Atenolol
- Atomoxetine
- Bemetizide
- Bendroflumethiazide
- Benzthiazide
- Betaxolol
- Bisoprolol
- Bumetanide
- Carteolol
- Carvedilol
- Celiprolol
- Chlorothiazide
- Chlorthalidone
- Clomipramine
- Clopamide
- Cyclopenthiazide
- Cyclothiazide
- Desipramine
- Diazoxide
- Dibenzepin
- Digoxin
- Doxepin
- Esmolol
- Ethacrynic Acid
- Etozolin
- Furosemide
- Hydrochlorothiazide
- Hydroflumethiazide
- Imipramine
- Indapamide
- Iobenguane I 123
- Isocarboxazid
- Labetalol
- Levalbuterol
- Levobunolol
- Linezolid
- Lofepramine
- Melitracen
- Methacholine
- Methyclothiazide
- Methylene Blue
- Metipranolol
- Metolazone
- Metoprolol
- Nadolol
- Nebivolol
- Nortriptyline
- Opipramol
- Oxprenolol
- Ozanimod
- Penbutolol
- Phenelzine
- Pindolol
- Piretanide
- Polythiazide
- Procarbazine
- Propranolol
- Protriptyline
- Quinethazone
- Rasagiline
- Safinamide
- Selegiline
- Sotalol
- Tianeptine
- Timolol
- Torsemide
- Tranylcypromine
- Trichlormethiazide
- Trimipramine
- Xipamide
Interactions with food/tobacco/alcohol
Certain medicines should not be used at or around the time of eating food or eating certain types of food since interactions may occur. Using alcohol or tobacco with certain medicines may also cause interactions to occur. Discuss with your healthcare professional the use of your medicine with food, alcohol, or tobacco.
Other medical problems
The presence of other medical problems may affect the use of this medicine. Make sure you tell your doctor if you have any other medical problems, especially:
- Allergy to milk proteins, history or—ProAir® Digihaler™ and ProAir® Respiclick® should not be used in patients with this condition.
- Diabetes or
- Heart or blood vessel disease (eg, coronary insufficiency) or
- Heart rhythm problems (eg, arrhythmia, QT prolongation) or
- Hypertension (high blood pressure) or
- Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) or
- Hypokalemia (low potassium in the blood) or
- Ketoacidosis (high ketones in the blood) or
- Seizures, history of—Use with caution. May make these conditions worse.
- Kidney disease—Use with caution. The effects may be increased because of slower removal of the medicine from the body.
Proper use of Accuneb
This section provides information on the proper use of a number of products that contain albuterol. It may not be specific to Accuneb. Please read with care.
Use this medicine only as directed by your doctor. Do not use more of it and do not use it more often than your doctor ordered. Also, do not stop using this medicine or any asthma medicine without telling your doctor. To do so may increase the chance for breathing problems.
The albuterol inhalation solution (eg, Accuneb®) should be used with a jet nebulizer that is connected to an air compressor with good air flow. The inhalation solution and nebulizer will come with patient instructions. Read and follow these instructions carefully. Ask your doctor if you have any questions.
To use the inhalation solution in the nebulizer:
- Use one container of solution or mix the exact amount of solution using the dropper provided for each dose.
- Place the inhalation solution in the medicine reservoir or nebulizer cup on the machine.
- Connect the nebulizer to the face mask or mouthpiece.
- Use the face mask or mouthpiece to breathe in the medicine.
- Use the nebulizer for about 5 to 15 minutes, or until the medicine in the nebulizer cup is gone.
- Clean all the parts of the nebulizer after each use.
The albuterol inhalation aerosol (eg, ProAir® HFA, Proventil® HFA, Ventolinr® HFA) and albuterol inhalation powder (eg, ProAir® Digihaler™, ProAir® Respiclick®) are used with a special inhaler that comes with patient instructions. Read the directions carefully before using this medicine. If you or your child do not understand the directions or are not sure how to use the inhaler, ask your doctor to show you what to do. Also, ask your doctor to check regularly how you or your child use the inhaler to make sure you are using it properly.
To use the inhalation aerosol:
- The inhaler should be at room temperature before you use it.
- Insert the metal canister firmly and fully into the actuator. This actuator should not be used with other inhaled medicines.
- Remove the cap and look at the mouthpiece to make sure it is clean.
- Point the inhaler away from your face. Avoid spraying in your eyes. Shake the inhaler well and test spray it in the air 3 times for ProAir® HFA or 4 times for Proventil® HFA and Ventolin® HFA before using it for the first time or if the inhaler has not been used for more than 2 weeks.
- To inhale this medicine, breathe out fully, trying to get as much air out of the lungs as possible. Put the mouthpiece just in front of your mouth with the canister upright.
- Open your mouth and breathe in slowly and deeply (like yawning), and at the same time firmly press down once on the top of the canister.
- Hold your breath for about 10 seconds, then breathe out slowly.
- If you are supposed to use more than one puff, wait 1 minute before inhaling the second puff. Repeat these steps for the second puff, starting with shaking the inhaler.
- When you have finished all of your doses, rinse your mouth with water and spit the water out.
- Clean the inhaler mouthpiece at least once a week with warm running water for 30 seconds, and air dry it completely.
- If you need to use the inhaler before it is completely dry, shake off the excess water, replace the canister, and spray it 2 times in the air away from the face. Use your regular dose.
- After using the inhaler, wash the mouthpiece again and dry it completely.
- If the mouthpiece becomes blocked, washing it will help.
- The Proventil® HFA inhaler has a window that shows the number of doses remaining. This tells you when you are getting low on medicine. The counter will turn red when there are only 20 doses left, to remind you to refill your prescription.
To use the inhalation powder:
- Take the inhaler from the foil pouch before you use it for the first time.
- The inhaler provides about 200 inhalations. The dose counter will change to red when there are "20" doses left. Call your doctor or pharmacist for a refill of prescription or medicine.
- Make sure the cap is closed before using this medicine. Do not open the cap unless you are going to use it.
- Hold the inhaler upright as you open the cap fully until you hear a "click". Your inhaler is now ready to use.
- To inhale this medicine, breathe out fully, trying to get as much air out of the lungs as possible. Put the mouthpiece fully into your mouth and close your lips around it.
- Breathe in through your mouth as deeply as you can until you have taken a full deep breath.
- Do not block the vent above the mouthpiece with your lips or fingers.
- Hold your breath for about 10 seconds or as long as you comfortably can.
- Remove the inhaler from your mouth and check the dose counter to make sure you received the medicine.
- Close the cap firmly over the mouthpiece after using the inhaler. Always close the cap after each use.
- If you are supposed to use more than one puff, repeat these steps for the second puff, starting with opening the cap fully.
- Do not use a spacer or volume holding chamber together with the ProAir® Digihaler™.
- Keep the inhaler clean and dry at all times. Do not wash or put any part of the inhaler in water. Replace the ProAir® Digihaler™ if it has been washed or placed in water.
- If you need to clean the mouthpiece, wipe it gently with a dry cloth or tissue.
Dosing
The dose of this medicine will be different for different patients. Follow your doctor''s orders or the directions on the label. The following information includes only the average doses of this medicine. If your dose is different, do not change it unless your doctor tells you to do so.
The amount of medicine that you take depends on the strength of the medicine. Also, the number of doses you take each day, the time allowed between doses, and the length of time you take the medicine depend on the medical problem for which you are using the medicine.
- For inhalation aerosol dosage form (inhaler):
- For treatment or prevention of bronchospasm:
- Adults and children 4 years of age and older—Two puffs every 4 to 6 hours as needed.
- Children younger than 4 years of age—Use and dose must be determined by your child''s doctor.
- For prevention of exercise-induced bronchospasm:
- Adults and children 4 years of age and older—Two puffs taken 15 to 30 minutes before exercise.
- Children younger than 4 years of age—Use and dose must be determined by your child''s doctor.
- For treatment or prevention of bronchospasm:
- For inhalation powder dosage form (inhaler):
- For treatment or prevention of bronchospasm:
- Adults and children 4 years of age and older—Two puffs every 4 to 6 hours as needed.
- Children younger than 4 years of age—Use and dose must be determined by your child''s doctor.
- For prevention of exercise-induced bronchospasm:
- Adults and children 4 years of age and older—Two puffs taken 15 to 30 minutes before exercise.
- Children younger than 4 years of age—Use and dose must be determined by your child''s doctor.
- For treatment or prevention of bronchospasm:
- For inhalation solution dosage form (used with a nebulizer):
- For prevention of bronchospasm:
- Adults and children older than 12 years of age—2.5 milligrams (mg) in the nebulizer 3 or 4 times per day as needed.
- Children 2 to 12 years of age—0.63 to 1.25 mg in the nebulizer 3 or 4 times per day as needed.
- Children younger than 2 years of age—Use and dose must be determined by your child''s doctor.
- For prevention of bronchospasm:
Missed dose
If you miss a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double doses.
Storage
Keep the medicine in the foil pouch until you are ready to use it. Store at room temperature, away from heat and direct light. Do not freeze.
Store unopened vials of this medicine at room temperature, away from heat and direct light. Do not freeze. An open vial of medicine must be used right away.
Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep from freezing.
Keep out of the reach of children.
Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.
Ask your healthcare professional how you should dispose of any medicine you do not use.
Store the canister at room temperature, away from heat and direct light. Do not freeze. Do not keep this medicine inside a car where it could be exposed to extreme heat or cold. Do not poke holes in the canister or throw it into a fire, even if the canister is empty.
Store Proventil® HFA or Ventolin® HFA inhaler with the mouthpiece down.
Throw away the ProAir® Digihaler™ or ProAir® Respiclick® 13 months after opening the foil pouch, when the dose counter reaches "0", or after the expiration date, whichever comes first.
Precautions while using Accuneb
It is very important that your doctor check your or your child''s progress at regular visits. This will allow your doctor to see if the medicine is working properly and to check for any unwanted effects.
Do not use this medicine together with other similar inhaled medicines, including isoproterenol (Isuprel®), levalbuterol (Xopenex™), metaproterenol (Alupent®), pirbuterol (Maxair®), or terbutaline (Brethaire®).
This medicine may cause paradoxical bronchospasm, which means your breathing or wheezing will get worse. This may be life-threatening. Check with your doctor right away if you or your child have coughing, difficulty breathing, or wheezing after using this medicine.
Talk to your doctor or get medical help right away if:
- Your symptoms do not improve or they become worse after using this medicine.
- Your inhaler does not seem to be working as well as usual and you need to use it more often.
You or your child may also be taking an antiinflammatory medicine, including steroid (cortisone-like medicine), together with this medicine. Do not stop taking the antiinflammatory medicine, even if your asthma seems better, unless your doctor tells you to.
Albuterol may cause serious allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis, which can be life-threatening and require immediate medical attention. Check with your doctor right away if you or your child develop a skin rash, hives, itching, trouble breathing or swallowing, or any swelling of your hands, face, or mouth while you are using this medicine.
Hypokalemia (low potassium in the blood) may occur while you are using this medicine. Check with your doctor right away if you or your child have decreased urine, dry mouth, increased thirst, irregular heartbeat, loss of appetite, mood changes, muscle pain or cramps, nausea, vomiting, numbness or tingling in the hands, feet, or lips, trouble breathing, seizures, or unusual tiredness or weakness.
Do not take other medicines unless they have been discussed with your doctor. This includes prescription or nonprescription (over-the-counter [OTC]) medicines for appetite control, asthma, colds, cough, hay fever, or sinus problems, and herbal or vitamin supplements.
Accuneb side effects
Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.
Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur:
More common
- Fast, irregular, pounding, or racing heartbeat or pulse
- shakiness in the legs, arms, hands, or feet
- trembling or shaking of the hands or feet
Less common
- Bladder pain
- bloody or cloudy urine
- chest discomfort, tightness, or pain
- chills
- cough
- cough producing mucus
- diarrhea
- difficult or labored breathing
- difficulty with swallowing
- dizziness
- feeling of warmth
- fever
- frequent urge to urinate
- hives, itching, or skin rash
- hoarseness
- loss of appetite
- lower back or side pain
- nausea
- puffiness or swelling of the eyelids or around the eyes, face, lips, or tongue
- redness of the face, neck, arms, and occasionally, upper chest
- runny nose
- sore throat
- stomach pain
- swollen, painful, or tender lymph glands in the neck, armpit, or groin
- unusual tiredness or weakness
Rare
- Hives or welts
- large, hive-like swelling on the face, eyelids, lips, tongue, throat, hands, legs, feet, or genitals
- noisy breathing
- swelling of the mouth or throat
Incidence not known
- Agitation
- arm, back, or jaw pain
- chest heaviness
- confusion
- decreased urine
- dizziness, faintness, or lightheadedness when getting up suddenly from a lying or sitting position
- drowsiness
- dry mouth
- extra heartbeat
- fainting
- flushed, dry skin
- fruit-like breath odor
- headache
- increased hunger
- increased thirst
- increased urination
- irritability
- lightheadedness
- muscle pain or cramps
- nervousness
- nightmares
- numbness or tingling in the hands, feet, or lips
- pounding in the ears
- rapid, deep breathing
- restlessness
- seeing, hearing, or feeling things that are not there
- seizures
- slow or fast heartbeat
- stomach cramps
- sweating
- unexplained weight loss
- unusual feeling of excitement
- vomiting
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:
More common
- Body aches or pain
- congestion
- voice changes
Less common
- Difficult, burning, or painful urination
- earache
- headache, severe and throbbing
- muscle or bone pain
- pain
- redness or swelling in the ear
- redness, swelling, or soreness of the tongue
- sneezing
- stuffy nose
- swelling
- tenderness
- trouble in holding or releasing urine
- trouble sleeping
Rare
- Sleepiness or unusual drowsiness
Incidence not known
- Bad, unusual, or unpleasant (after) taste
- change in taste
- feeling of constant movement of self or surroundings
- gagging
- rough, scratchy sound to voice
- sensation of spinning
- tightness in the throat
Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Frequently asked questions
- Can you use an expired inhaler?
- Does either Ventolin or albuterol contain steroids?
- Does coffee help with asthma?
- What is albuterol sulfate and can I take it if I''m allergic to sulfa?
- How do you use the ProAir Digihaler?
More about AccuNeb (albuterol)
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- Side effects
- Dosage information
- During pregnancy
- Generic availability
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Further information
Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.
Medical Disclaimer