FDA
Nicardipine Hydrochloride in 0.9% Sodium Chloride
The FDA lists this product in 6 strengths and forms.
Indications
Nicardipine hydrochloride injection is a calcium channel blocker indicated for the short-term treatment of hypertension when oral therapy is not feasible.
1.1Hypertension
Nicardipine hydrochloride injection is indicated for the short-term treatment of hypertension when oral therapy is not feasible or desirable. For prolonged control of blood pressure, transfer patients to oral medication as soon as their clinical condition permits [see Dosage and Administration (2.6) ].
Contraindications
Do not use in patients with advanced aortic stenosis ( 4.1 ).
4.1Advanced Aortic Stenosis Do
not use nicardipine in patients with advanced aortic stenosis because of the afterload reduction effect of nicardipine. Reduction of diastolic pressure in these patients may worsen rather than improve myocardial oxygen balance.
Warnings and precautions
To reduce the possibility of venous thrombosis, phlebitis, and vascular impairment, do not use small veins, such as those on the dorsum of the hand or wrist. Avoid intraarterial administration or extravasation ( 5.7 ). To minimize the risk of peripheral venous irritation, change the site of infusion of nicardipine every 12 hours ( 5.7 ). Nicardipine is not a beta-blocker and therefore gives no protection against the dangers of abrupt beta-blocker withdrawal.
Withdraw beta-blockers gradually ( 5.8 ). Closely monitor response in patients with angina ( 5.3 ), congestive heart failure ( 5.4 ), impaired hepatic function ( 5.5 ), portal hypertension ( 5.5 ), and renal impairment ( 5.6 ) and pheochromocytoma ( 5.9 ).