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Nipride RTU
Generic name: nitroprusside
Brand names: Nipride RTU, Nitropress
What is Nipride RTU?
Nipride RTU is a medicine that helps widen blood vessels and is used to treat congestive heart failure and very high blood pressure (hypertensive crisis).
Nipride RTU is also used to manage blood pressure during surgery.
Nipride RTU may also be used for reasons not mentioned in this medication guide.
This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.
Warnings
Nipride RTU is given by a healthcare provider. Your vital signs will be monitored closely while you are receiving Nipride RTU.
This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.
Before taking this medicine
You should not be treated with Nipride RTU 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;
- low blood pressure;
- blood circulation problems in your arms or legs;
- liver disease;
- 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.
This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.
Nipride RTU side effects
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Tell your caregivers right away if you have:
- a light-headed feeling, even while lying down;
- chest pain, severe shortness of breath;
- pounding heartbeats, sweating;
- a restless or uneasy feeling, or if you feel very weak or tired;
- stomach pain, nausea, vomiting;
- headache, confusion, ringing in your ears;
- muscle pain or twitching, problems with muscle movement;
- a numb or cold feeling in your arms and legs; or
- blue-colored lips, fingers, or toes.
Common side effects of Nipride RTU may include:
- flushing (sudden warmth, redness, or tingly feeling); or
- bruising or irritation around the IV needle.
This is not a complete list of side effects, and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.
How is Nipride RTU given?
Nipride RTU is injected into a vein through an infusion pump. A healthcare provider will give you this injection in a medical setting.
For hypertensive crisis, Nipride RTU 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 Nipride RTU is not causing harmful effects.
What happens if I miss a dose?
In a medical setting, it is unlikely that you will miss a dose.
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What happens if I overdose?
Overdose may cause confusion, weakness, severe dizziness, seizure, or fainting. In a medical setting an overdose would be treated quickly.
Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.
This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.
What other drugs will affect Nipride RTU?
Tell your doctor if you take any type of blood pressure medication.
Other drugs may affect Nipride RTU, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell your doctor about all other medicines you use.
This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.
Related medicines
Content is provided for education and is not medical advice. See our medical disclaimer.