Ethanolamine oleate

Generic name: ethanolamine oleate [ ETH-a-NOLE-a-meen-OH-lee-ate ]
Brand name: Ethamolin
Dosage form: injectable solution (50 mg/mL)
Drug class:Sclerosing agents

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Oct 4, 2021. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is ethanolamine oleate?

Ethanolamine oleate is a sclerosing (skler-OS-ing) agent that is used to treat esophageal varices (dilated blood vessels inside the tissues lining the esophagus or upper part of the stomach). Esophageal varices is a life-threatening condition that causes severe bleeding from the esophagus into the throat or intestines.

Esophageal varices is common in people with severe liver disease. Ethanolamine oleate will not treat any underlying liver disease.

Ethanolamine oleate is only for treating esophageal varices that have recently bled. ethanolamine oleate is not for treating varicose veins in the legs.

Ethanolamine oleate may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Warnings

Use only as directed. Tell your doctor if you use other medicines or have other medical conditions or allergies.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use ethanolamine oleate if you are allergic to ethanolamine oleate or oleic acid (oleo).

If possible during an emergency, tell your medical caregivers if you've ever had:

• kidney disease;

• heart disease; or

• lung disease.

If possible during an emergency, tell your medical caregivers if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Make sure any doctor caring for your pregnancy or your baby knows you have received this medication.

How is ethanolamine oleate given?

Ethanolamine oleate is injected into a vein by a healthcare provider in an emergency setting.

Ethanolamine oleate is usually given during a bleeding episode and again at 1 week, 6 weeks, 3 months, and 6 months afterward.

Your doctor will need to check your progress on a regular basis.

What happens if I miss a dose?

In a medical setting you are not likely to miss a dose.

What happens if I overdose?

In a medical setting an overdose would be treated quickly.

What should I avoid after receiving ethanolamine oleate?

Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.

Ethanolamine oleate side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Tell your medical caregivers right away if you have:

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