Risk of severe hypersensitivity reactions (e.g., anaphylaxis). (See Hypersensitivity Reactions under Cautions.)
Immediately and permanently discontinue if clinical evidence of hypersensitivity reaction develops.
Hemolysis
Risk of severe hemolysis in patients with a glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G-6-PD) deficiency. (See Hemolysis under Cautions.)
Immediately and permanently discontinue if hemolysis develops.
Screen patients at higher risk (e.g., patients of African or Mediterranean ancestry) prior to starting therapy.
Methemoglobinemia
Methemoglobinemia reported; immediately and permanently discontinue if methemoglobinemia develops. (See Methemoglobinemia under Cautions.)
Interference with Uric Acid Measurements
Enzymatic degradation of uric acid occurs within blood samples left at room temperature, resulting in spuriously low uric acid levels.
Collect blood in prechilled tubes containing heparin anticoagulant and immediately immerse and maintain in an ice-water bath; assay plasma samples within 4 hours of collection. (See Specific Drugs and Laboratory Tests under Interactions.)
This medicine is for infusion 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. While this drug may be prescribed for children as young as 1 month old for selected conditions, precautions do apply.
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.
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. You will need to have regular blood tests during your treatment.
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
blue color to lips or nailbeds
breathing problems
chest pain, tightness
fast, irregular heartbeat
feeling faint or lightheaded, falls
fever
low blood pressure
seizures
trouble passing urine or change in the amount of urine
yellowing of the eyes or skin
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
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.
NOTE:This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.
Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children,
never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.
