Nitroprusside
Generic name: nitroprusside [ nye-troe-PRUS-ide ]
Brand names: Nipride RTU, Nitropress
Dosage form: intravenous solution (20 mg/100 mL-NaCl 0.9%; 25 mg/mL)
Drug classes:Agents for hypertensive emergencies, Vasodilators
What is nitroprusside?
Nitroprusside is a vasodilator that is used to treat congestive heart failure and life-threatening high blood pressure (hypertensive crisis).
Nitroprusside is also used to control blood pressure during a surgery.
Nitroprusside may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
Nitroprusside is given by a healthcare provider. Your vital signs will be watched closely while you are receiving nitroprusside.
Before taking this medicine
You should not be treated with nitroprusside if you are allergic to it, or if you have:
hereditary vision loss (Leber's disease);
vision problems caused by smoking; or
a history of blood clot in your brain.
If possible during an emergency, tell your caregivers if you've ever had:
heart failure, heart attack, or stroke;
blood circulation problems in your arms or legs;
anemia (low red blood cells);
sepsis (a severe reaction to an infection); or
a head injury, brain tumor, or other cause of increased pressure inside the skull.
If possible during an emergency, tell your caregivers if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
How is nitroprusside given?
Nitroprusside is injected into a vein through an infusion pump. A healthcare provider will give you this injection in a medical setting.
For hypertensive crisis, nitroprusside is usually given only until you are able to take a longer-acting medicine to lower your blood pressure.
Your breathing, blood pressure, oxygen levels, and other vital signs will be watched closely.
Your blood will also be tested to make sure nitroprusside is not causing harmful effects.