About phenylephrine hydrochloride
Alpha-1 adrenergic agonist vasopressor
Used for
- Treats low blood pressure during or after anaesthesia, especially when caused by blood vessel widening.
Usual adult dose
Given intravenously by a clinician, usually as small repeated doses or a continuous infusion; dose is adjusted to blood pressure.
Usual dose in children
Not routinely used in children; specialist dosing is based on weight and clinical response.
Common side effects
- Slow heartbeat
- High blood pressure
- Headache
- Nausea or vomiting
Important warnings
- Requires close monitoring of blood pressure and heart rhythm.
- Use cautiously with heart disease, high blood pressure, or poor circulation.
- Injection outside a vein can damage nearby tissue.
- May worsen excessive blood pressure or heart rhythm problems.
Pregnancy
May be used during anaesthesia when clinically necessary; pregnancy-specific risks should be considered by the treating team.
Breastfeeding
Information is limited; short-term use around anaesthesia is unlikely to require stopping breastfeeding, subject to clinical advice.
Interactions
- Monoamine oxidase inhibitors may greatly increase blood pressure effects.
- Other medicines that raise blood pressure or stimulate the heart may increase adverse effects.
- Beta-blockers can increase the risk of high blood pressure and slow heartbeat.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.