Alprostadil (Injection)

Introduction:

Alprostadil (al-PROS-ta-dil)

Treats infants who were born with certain heart, lung, and blood vessel problems. May help to increase the amount of oxygen-rich blood that is pumped from the heart to the body, until other treatments can be done.

Brand Name(s):

Prostin VR Pediatric

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

Your baby should not be given this medicine if he has had an allergic reaction to alprostadil.

How to Use This Medicine:

Injectable

  • A nurse or other trained health professional will give you this medicine.This medicine is given through a needle or a catheter placed in a vein. It may also be given through a catheter in your baby's umbilical cord.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

  • Make sure caregivers know if your baby has problems with breathing, digestion, or bleeding.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

  • Allergic reaction: Rash or hives, swelling of the face or hands, or swelling in the mouth or throat.
  • Fast or slow heartbeats.
  • Trouble breathing.
  • Unusual bleeding, bruising, or weakness.
  • Seizures, fainting, or becoming limp (not moving).
  • Redness, swelling, or leaking from (wetness around) an IV site.

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

  • Joint swelling, or a decrease in movement of the arms or legs.
  • Irritability.
  • Diarrhea, swollen belly, vomiting, or other digestion problems.
  • Fever, flushing (unusual warmth or redness of the skin), or problems keeping a warm body temperature.
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