1.1 Intra-arterial Procedures

Adult and pediatric patients 12 years of age and older

• (270 mg Iodine/mL and 320 mg Iodine/mL) intra-arterial digital subtraction angiography (IA-DSA).
• (320 mg Iodine/mL) angiocardiography (left ventriculography and selective coronary arteriography), peripheral arteriography, visceral arteriography, and cerebral arteriography.

Pediatric patients less than 12 years of age

• (320 mg Iodine/mL) angiocardiography, cerebral arteriography, and visceral arteriography.

1.2 Intravenous Procedures

Adult and pediatric patients 12 years of age and older

• (270 mg Iodine/mL and 320 mg Iodine/mL) CT imaging of the head and body.
• (270 mg Iodine/mL and 320 mg Iodine/mL) excretory urography.
• (270 mg Iodine/mL) peripheral venography.
• (320 mg Iodine/mL) coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) to assist in the diagnostic evaluation of patients with suspected coronary artery disease.

Pediatric patients less than 12 years of age

• (270 mg Iodine/mL) CT imaging of the head and body.
• (270 mg Iodine/mL) excretory urography.

2.1 Important Dosage and Administration Instructions

• Iodixanol injection is for intravascular use only [see Boxed Warning, Contraindications (4), and Warnings and Precautions (5.1)]
• Use sterile technique for all handling and administration of iodixanol injection.
• Do not use if tamper-evident ring is broken or missing.
• Warm iodixanol injection and administer at body or room temperature.
• Inspect iodixanol injection for particulate matter or discoloration before administration, whenever solution and container permit. Do not administer if iodixanol injection contains particulate matter or is discolored.
• Do not mix iodixanol injection with, or inject in intravenous lines containing, other drugs or total nutritional admixtures.
• Use the lowest dose necessary to obtain adequate visualization.
• Individualize the volume, strength, and rate of administration of iodixanol injection. Consider factors such as age, bodyweight, vessel size, blood flow rate within the vessel, anticipated pathology, degree and extent of opacification required, structures or area to be examined, disease processes affecting the patient, and equipment and technique to be employed.
• The maximum recommended total dose of iodine for adults is 80 grams.
• Avoid extravasation when injecting iodixanol injection; especially in patients with severe arterial or venous disease [seeWarnings and Precautions (5.6)].
• Hydrate patients before and after iodixanol injection administration [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)] .

2.2 Intra-arterial Dosage and Administration

• Intra-arterial digital subtraction angiography (IA-DSA)(270 mg Iodine/mL and 320 mg Iodine/mL)
• Angiocardiography (left ventriculography and selective coronary arteriography), peripheral arteriography, visceral arteriography, and cerebral arteriography(320 mg Iodine/mL)

Use injection rates approximately equal to the flow rate in the vessel being injected. The usual single injection volumes or total dose per patient (mL/kg) for adults and adolescents over 12 years of age are listed in Table 1:

TABLE 1

ADULTS and PEDIATRIC PATIENTS 12 YEARS OF AGE AND OLDER

IODIXANOL INJECTION SINGLE DOSE RECOMMENDATIONS FOR INJECTION INTO SELECTED ARTERIES

1 IA-DSA = Intra-arterial Digital Subtraction Angiography

2.3 Intravenous Dosage and Administration

• Computed Tomography of the Head or Body(270 mg Iodine/mL and 320 mg Iodine/mL)
• Excretory Urography(270 mg Iodine/mL and 320 mg Iodine/mL)
• Peripheral Venography(270 mg Iodine/mL)
• Coronary Computed Tomography Angiography (CCTA)(320 mg Iodine/mL)

Recommended dosage of iodixanol injection is dependent on: the administration procedure, patient weight, and CT device factors, as detailed in Table 2. Calibrate the intravenous injection rate so that image acquisition coincides with peak arterial concentration. The time between iodixanol injection and peak arterial concentration varies between patients. Selected dosing for different indications in adults and pediatric patients over 12 years of age are shown in Table 2.

TABLE 2

1For CT of the head and body, iodixanol injection may be used with an automated contrast injection system or contrast media management system cleared for use with iodixanol injection.

2For pediatric patients aged 12 to 17, recommended dose is 1 mL/kg to 2 mL/kg.
3The main iodixanol injection volume may be preceded by a test bolus consisting of 20 mL iodixanol injection, immediately followed by a 20 mL saline flush, both injected at rate of 4 mL/sec to 7 mL/sec.
4Injection of iodixanol injection with saline can be either biphasic (without dilution phase) or triphasic (with dilution phase). Alternatively, a dose of 1 mL/kg may be used to calculate total iodixanol injection dose (excluding any test bolus). For CCTA acquired at < 120 kVp, the dose of iodixanol injection may be reduced by up to 15% in patients < 85 kg and BMI < 30 kg/m 2. For CCTA acquired on a scanner with more than 64 detector rows, the dose of iodixanol injection may be reduced in proportion to the scan duration.

2.4 Dosage in Pediatric Patients Less Than 12 Years of Age

Intra-arterial Dosage and Administration

Angiocardiography, cerebral arteriography, or visceral arteriography(320 mg Iodine/mL): The recommended dosage is 1 mL/kg to 2 mL/kg. The maximum dose should not exceed 4 mL/kg.

Intravenous Dosage and Administration
Computerized Tomography or Excretory Urography(270 mg Iodine/mL):
The recommended dosage is 1 mL/kg to 2 mL/kg. The maximum dose should not exceed 2 mL/kg.

2.5 Instructions for Use with an Automated Contrast Injection System or Contrast Management System for CT of the Head and Body

• Iodixanol injection may be used with an automated contrast injection system cleared for use with contrast media.

◦  See above Important Dosage and Administration Instructions for iodixanol injection (2.1).

◦  See device labeling for information on device indications, instructions for use, and techniques to help assure safe use.

• Iodixanol injection 320 mg Iodine/mL in 100 mL and 150 mL bottles may be used with a contrast media management system cleared for use with iodixanol injection 320 mg Iodine/mL in 100 mL and 150 mL bottles.

◦  See device labeling for information on device indications, instructions for use, and techniques to help assure safe use.

◦  Use sterile technique for penetrating the container closure of iodixanol injection 320 mg Iodine/mL and transferring iodixanol injection solution. Clean the stopper with a pad soaked in sporicidal solution followed by a pad soaked in alcohol, then puncture the stopper. The container closure may be penetrated only one time with a suitable sterile component of the contrast media management system cleared for use with iodixanol injection 320 mg Iodine/mL in 100 mL and 150 mL bottles.

◦  Once the iodixanol injection 320 mg Iodine/mL is punctured do not remove the bottle from the work area during the entire period of use.

◦  Maximum use time is 4 hours after initial puncture.

◦  Each bottle is for one procedure only. Discard unused portion.

5.1 Risks Associated with Inadvertent Intrathecal Administration

Iodixanol is for intravascular use only and is contraindicated for intrathecal use [see Contraindications (4)and Dosage and Administration (2.1)] . Inadvertent Intrathecal administration can cause death, convulsions/seizures, cerebral hemorrhage, coma, paralysis, arachnoiditis, acute renal failure, cardiac arrest, rhabdomyolysis, hyperthermia, and brain edema.

5.2 Hypersensitivity Reactions

Iodixanol can cause life-threatening or fatal hypersensitivity reactions including anaphylaxis. Manifestations include respiratory arrest, laryngospasm, bronchospasm, angioedema, and shock. Most severe reactions develop shortly after the start of the injection (within 3 minutes), but reactions can occur up to hours later. There is an increased risk in patients with a history of a previous reaction to contrast agent, and known allergies (i.e., bronchial asthma, drug, or food allergies) or other hypersensitivities. Premedication with antihistamines or corticosteroids does not prevent serious life-threatening reactions, but may reduce both their incidence and severity.

Obtain a history of allergy, hypersensitivity, or hypersensitivity reactions to iodinated contrast agents and always have emergency resuscitation equipment and trained personnel available prior to iodixanol administration. Monitor all patients for hypersensitivity reactions.

5.3 Contrast-Induced Acute Kidney Injury

Acute kidney injury, including renal failure, may occur after iodixanol administration. Risk factors include: pre-existing renal impairment, dehydration, diabetes mellitus, congestive heart failure, advanced vascular disease, elderly age, concomitant use of nephrotoxic or diuretic medications, multiple myeloma/paraproteinaceous diseases, repetitive and/or large doses of an iodinated contrast agent.

Use the lowest necessary dose of iodixanol in patients with renal impairment. Adequately hydrate patients prior to and following iodixanol administration. Do not use laxatives, diuretics, or preparatory dehydration prior to iodixanol administration.

5.4 Cardiovascular Adverse Reactions

Life-threatening or fatal cardiovascular reactions including hypotension, shock, cardiac arrest have occurred with the use of iodixanol. Most deaths occur during injection or five to ten minutes later, with cardiovascular disease as the main aggravating factor. Cardiac decompensation, serious arrhythmias, and myocardial ischemia or infarction can occur during coronary arteriography and ventriculography.

Based upon clinical literature reported deaths from the administration of iodinated contrast agents range from 6.6 per million (0.00066%) to 1 in 10,000 (0.01%). Use the lowest necessary dose of iodixanol in patients with congestive heart failure and always have emergency resuscitation equipment and trained personnel available. Monitor all patients for severe cardiovascular reactions.

5.5 Thromboembolic Events

Angiocardiography
Serious, rarely fatal, thromboembolic events causing myocardial infarction and stroke can occur during angiocardiography procedures with both ionic and nonionic contrast media. During these procedures, increased thrombosis and activation of the complement system occurs. Risk factors for thromboembolic events include: length of procedure, catheter and syringe material, underlying disease state, and concomitant medications.

To minimize thromboembolic events, use meticulous angiographic techniques, and minimize the length of the procedure. Avoid blood remaining in contact with syringes containing iodinated contrast agents, which increases the risk of clotting. Avoid angiocardiography in patients with homocystinuria because of the risk of inducing thrombosis and embolism.

5.6 Extravasation and Injection Site Reactions

Extravasation of iodixanol injection may cause tissue necrosis and/or compartment syndrome, particularly in patients with severe arterial or venous disease. Ensure intravascular placement of catheters prior to injection. Monitor patients for extravasation and advise patients to seek medical care for progression of symptoms.

5.7 Thyroid Storm in Patients with Hyperthyroidism

Thyroid storm has occurred after the intravascular use of iodinated contrast agents in patients with hyperthyroidism, or with an autonomously functioning thyroid nodule. Evaluate the risk in such patients before use of iodixanol.

5.8 Thyroid Dysfunction in Pediatric Patients 0 to 3 Years of Age

Thyroid dysfunction characterized by hypothyroidism or transient thyroid suppression has been reported after both single exposure and multiple exposures to iodinated contrast media (ICM) in pediatric patients 0 to 3 years of age.

Younger age, very low birth weight, prematurity, underlying medical conditions affecting thyroid function, admission to neonatal or pediatric intensive care units, and congenital cardiac conditions are associated with an increased risk of hypothyroidism after ICM exposure. Pediatric patients with congenital cardiac conditions may be at the greatest risk given that they often require high doses of contrast during invasive cardiac procedures.

An underactive thyroid during early life may be harmful for cognitive and neurological development and may require thyroid hormone replacement therapy. After exposure to ICM, individualize thyroid function monitoring based on underlying risk factors, especially in term and preterm neonates.

5.9 Hypertensive Crisis in Patients with Pheochromocytoma

Hypertensive crisis has occurred after the use of iodinated contrast agents in patient with pheochromocytoma. Monitor patients when administering iodixanol if pheochromocytoma or catecholamine-secreting paragangliomas are suspected. Inject the minimum amount of contrast necessary, assess the blood pressure throughout the procedure, and have measures for treatment of a hypertensive crisis readily available.

5.10 Sickle Cell Crisis in Patients with Sickle Cell Disease

Iodinated contrast agents when administered intravascularly may promote sickling in individuals who are homozygous for sickle cell disease. Hydrate patients prior to and following iodixanol administration and use iodixanol only if the necessary imaging information cannot be obtained with alternative imaging modalities.

5.11 Severe Cutaneous Adverse Reactions

Severe cutaneous adverse reactions (SCAR) may develop from 1 hour to several weeks after intravascular contrast agent administration. These reactions include Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis (SJS/TEN), acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis (AGEP) and drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS). Reaction severity may increase and time to onset may decrease with repeat administration of contrast agents; prophylactic medications may not prevent or mitigate severe cutaneous adverse reactions. Avoid administering iodixanol to patients with a history of a severe cutaneous adverse reaction to iodixanol.

6.1 Clinical Trials Experience

Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice.

Iodixanol is often associated with sensations of discomfort, warmth or pain. In a subgroup of 1,259 patients; 30% who received iodixanol or a comparator had application site discomfort, pain, warmth or cold. Iodixanol had a trend toward fewer patient reports of moderate or severe pain or warmth. Pain was reported in 2% of patients receiving iodixanol and 10% of patients receiving a comparator. Heat was reported in 29% of patients receiving iodixanol and 51% of patients receiving a comparator.

Table 3 shows the incidence of events reported in blinded, controlled clinical studies of iodixanol in a total of 1,244 adult patients. Adverse events (AEs) are listed by body system and in decreasing order of occurrence greater than 0.5% of patients. One or more adverse events were reported in 20% of patients during the study period (24 to 72 hours). In a 757 patient subgroup, the number of women reporting adverse events was 83/299 (28%) and the number of men was 77/458 (16%). A total of 3% of women and 0.8% of men reported chest pain.

TABLE 3

The following selected adverse events were reported in ≤0.5% of the 1,244 patients.

Body as a Whole—General Disorders:back pain, fatigue, malaise

Cardiovascular Disorders:arrhythmias, cardiac failure, conduction abnormalities, hypotension, myocardial infarction

Gastrointestinal System Disorders:dyspepsia

Hypersensitivity Disorders:pharyngeal edema

Nervous System:cerebral vascular disorder, convulsions, hypoesthesia, stupor, confusion

Peripheral Vascular Disorders:flushing, peripheral ischemia

Renal System Disorders:abnormal renal function, acute renal failure, hematuria

Respiratory System Disorders:asthma, bronchitis, dyspnea, pulmonary edema, rhinitis

Skin and Appendage Disorders: hematoma, increased sweating

Special Senses, Other Disorders:tinnitus

Vision Disorders:abnormal vision

6.2 Post-marketing Experience

The following additional adverse reactions have been identified during post approval use of iodixanol. Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to exposure.

Cardiovascular Disorders:Cardiac arrest, palpitations, spasms of coronary arteries, hypertension, and flushing

Endocrine Disorders:Hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism

Eye Disorders:Transient visual impairment including cortical blindness, diplopia, and blurred vision

Gastrointestinal Disorders:Abdominal pain, pancreatitis, salivary gland enlargement

General Disorders and Administration Site Conditions:Chills, pyrexia, pain and discomfort, administration site reactions including extravasation

Immune System Disorders:Hypersensitivity reactions, anaphylactic shock including, life-threatening or fatal anaphylaxis

Nervous System Disorders:Tremor (transient), coma, disturbance in consciousness, transient contrast-induced encephalopathy caused by extravasation of contrast media (including amnesia, hallucination, paralysis, paresis, transient speech disorder, aphasia, dysarthria)

Psychiatric Disorders:Anxiety, agitation

Respiratory, Thoracic, and Mediastinal Disorders:Cough, sneezing, throat irritation or tightness, laryngeal edema, pharyngeal edema, bronchospasm

Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders:Reactions range from mild (e.g. rash, erythema, pruritus, urticaria, and skin discoloration) to severe: [e.g. Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis (SJS/TEN), acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis (AGEP) and drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS)]

6.3 Pediatric Adverse Reactions

The overall character, quality, and severity of adverse reactions in pediatric patients is similar to that reported in adult patients from post marketing surveillance and other information.

Additional safety data was obtained in studies of iodixanol in 459 pediatric patients. A total of 26 patients ranged in age from birth to <29 days, 148 ranged from 29 days to 2 years, 263 from 2 to <12 years, and 22 from 12 to 18 years. A total of 252 (55%) of the patients were male. The racial distribution was: Caucasian-81%, Black-14%, Oriental-2%, and other or unknown-4%. The proportion of patients undergoing an intra-arterial procedure by age was: 92 % (<29 days), 55% (29 days to 6 months), and 29 % (>6 months). In these studies, adverse events were numerically higher in pediatric patients less than one year of age compared to older pediatric patients.

In pediatric patients who received intravenous injections of iodixanol for computerized tomography or excretory urography, a concentration of 270 mg Iodine/mL was used in 144 patients, and a concentration of 320 mg Iodine/mL in 154 patients. All patients received one intravenous injection of 1 mL/kg to 2 mL/kg.

In pediatric patients who received intra-arterial and intracardiac studies, a concentration of 320 mg Iodine/mL was used in 161 patients. Twenty-two patients were <29 days of age; 78 were 29 days to 2 years of age; and 61 were over 2 years. Most of these pediatric patients received initial volumes of 1 mL/kg to 2 mL/kg and most patients received a maximum of 3 injections.

7.1 Drug-Drug Interactions

• Metformin

In patients with renal impairment, metformin can cause lactic acidosis. Iodinated contrast agents appear to increase the risk of metformin-induced lactic acidosis, possibly as a result of worsening renal function. Stop metformin at the time of, or prior to, iodixanol administration in patients with an eGFR between 30 mL/min/1.73 m 2and 60 mL/min/1.73 m 2; in patients with a history of hepatic impairment, alcoholism or heart failure; or in patients who will be administered intra-arterial iodinated contrast. Re-evaluate eGFR 48 hours after the imaging procedure, and reinstitute metformin only after renal function is stable.

• Radioactive Iodine

Administration of iodinated contrast agents may interfere with thyroid uptake of radioactive iodine (I-131 and I-123) and decrease therapeutic and diagnostic efficacy in patients with carcinoma of the thyroid. The decrease in efficacy lasts for 6 to 8 weeks.

• Beta-adrenergic Blocking Agents

The use of beta-adrenergic blocking agents lowers the threshold for and increases the severity of contrast reactions, and reduces the responsiveness of treatment of hypersensitivity reactions with epinephrine. Because of the risk of hypersensitivity reactions, use caution when administering iodixanol to patients taking beta-blockers.

• Oral Cholecystographic Contrast Agents

Renal toxicity has been reported in patients with liver dysfunction who were given an oral cholecystographic agent followed by intravascular iodinated contrast agents. Postpone the administration of iodixanol in patients who have recently received an oral cholecystographic contrast agent.

7.2 Drug-Laboratory Test Interactions

• Effect on Thyroid Tests

The results of protein bound iodine and radioactive iodine uptake studies, which depend on iodine estimation, will not accurately reflect thyroid function for at least 16 days following administration of iodinated contrast agents. However, thyroid function tests which do not depend on iodine estimations (e.g., T3 resin uptake and total or free thyroxine T4 assays) are not affected.

• Effect on Urine Tests

As reported with other contrast agents, iodixanol may produce a false-positive result for protein in the urine using urine dip tests. However, the Coomassie blue method has been shown to give accurate results for the measurement of urine protein in the presence of iodixanol. In addition, care should be used in interpreting the results of urine specific gravity measurements in the presence of high levels of iodixanol and other contrast agents in the urine. Refractometry or urine osmolality may be substituted.

8.1 Pregnancy

Risk Summary

There are no data with iodixanol use in pregnant women to inform any drug-associated risks. In animal reproduction studies, no developmental toxicity occurred with intravenous iodixanol administration to rats and rabbits at doses up to 0.24 (rat) or 0.48 (rabbit) times the maximum recommended human intravenous dose (see Data).

All pregnancies have a background risk of birth defect, loss or other adverse outcomes. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2% to 4% and 15% to 20%, respectively.

Data

Animal Data

Reproduction studies were performed in rats and rabbits with intravenous administration of iodixanol at doses up to 2 g Iodine/kg, daily, from implantation of the embryo (gestation day 7 in rat; 6 in rabbit) through closure of the hard palate (gestation day 17 in rats; 18 in rabbits). No maternal toxicity occurred, and no adverse effects occurred on fetal survival, embryo-fetal development, or the ability of dams to rear a litter.

8.2 Lactation

Risk Summary

There are no data on the presence of iodixanol in human milk, the effects on the breastfed infant or the effects on milk production. Iodinated contrast agents are poorly excreted into human milk and are poorly absorbed by the gastrointestinal tract of a breastfed infant. The developmental and health benefits of breastfeeding should be considered along with the mother’s clinical need for iodixanol and any potential adverse effects on the breastfed infant from iodixanol or from the underlying maternal condition.

Clinical Considerations

Interruption of breastfeeding after exposure to iodinated contrast agents is not necessary because the potential exposure of the breastfed infant to iodine is small. However, a lactating woman may consider interrupting breastfeeding and pumping and discarding breast milk for 10 hours (approximately 5 elimination half-lives) after iodixanol administration in order to minimize drug exposure to a breast fed infant.

8.4 Pediatric Use

The safety and efficacy of iodixanol have been established in pediatric patients down to birth for angiocardiography, cerebral arteriography, visceral arteriography, CT imaging of the head and body, and excretory urography. The safety and efficacy of iodixanol have also been established in pediatric patients 12 years and older for intra-arterial digital subtraction angiography, peripheral arteriography, peripheral venography and CCTA. Use of iodixanol is supported by evidence from adequate and well controlled studies of iodixanol in adults and additional safety data obtained in 459 pediatric patients. In general, the types of adverse reactions reported are similar to those of adults. A higher number of adverse events in patients less than 1 year of age compared to older patients were observed in a study of iodixanol [see Adverse Events (6.3)] . The elimination of iodixanol is slower in this age group [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)] .

Thyroid function tests indicative of thyroid dysfunction, characterized by hypothyroidism or transient thyroid suppression have been reported following iodinated contrast media administration in pediatric patients, including term and preterm neonates. Some patients were treated for hypothyroidism. After exposure to iodinated contrast media, individualize thyroid function monitoring in pediatric patients 0 to 3 years of age based on underlying risk factors, especially in term and preterm neonates [see Warnings and Precautions (5.8)and Adverse Reactions (6.2)] .

Pediatric patients at higher risk of experiencing an adverse reaction during and after administration of any contrast agent may include those with asthma, hypersensitivity to other medication and/or allergens, cyanotic and acyanotic heart disease, congestive heart failure, or a serum creatinine greater than 1.5 mg/dL. Pediatric patients with immature renal function or dehydration may be at increased risk for adverse events due to slower elimination of iodinated contrast agents [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)] .

8.5 Geriatric Use

In clinical studies of iodixanol, 254/757 (34%) of patients were 65 and over. No overall differences in safety or effectiveness were observed between these patients and younger patients. Other reported clinical experience has not identified differences in response between the elderly and younger patients, but greater sensitivity of some older individuals cannot be ruled out. In general, dose selection for an elderly patient should be cautious usually starting at the low end of the dosing range, reflecting the greater frequency of decreased hepatic, renal or cardiac function, and of concomitant disease or other drug therapy.

11.1 Chemical Characteristics

Iodixanol injection, USP is a dimeric, iso-osmolar, nonionic, water-soluble, radiographic contrast medium for intravascular (intravenous and intra-arterial) use. It is provided as a ready-to-use sterile, pyrogen-free, and preservative free, colorless to pale yellow solution.

The chemical formula is 5,5´-[(2-hydroxy-1,3-propanediyl) bis(acetylimino)] bis[N,N´-bis(2,3-dihydroxypropyl)-2,4,6-triiodo-­1,3-benzenedicarboxamide] with a molecular weight of 1,550.18 (iodine content 49.1%).

Iodixanol (C  35H  44I  6N  6O  15) has the following structural formula:

Iodixanol injection, USP is available in two strengths:

• Iodixanol Injection, USP, 270 mg Iodine/mL (550 mg Iodixanol/mL), 0.074 mg calcium chloride dihydrate, 1.87 mg sodium chloride, 1.2 mg tromethamine, and 0.1 mg edetate calcium disodium.
• Iodixanol Injection, USP, 320 mg Iodine/mL (652 mg Iodixanol/mL), 0.044 mg calcium chloride dihydrate, 1.11 mg sodium chloride, 1.2 mg tromethamine and 0.1 mg edetate calcium disodium.

Sodium chloride and calcium chloride have been added, resulting in an isotonic solution for injection providing for both concentrations a sodium/calcium ratio equivalent to blood.

The pH is adjusted to 7.4 with hydrochloric acid and/or sodium hydroxide to achieve a range between pH 6.8 and 7.7 at 22°C.

11.2 Physical Characteristics

The two concentrations of iodixanol injection, USP (270 mg Iodine/mL and 320 mg Iodine/mL) have the following physical properties: 

TABLE 4

12.1 Mechanism of Action

Intravascular injection of iodixanol opacifies vessels in the path of flow of the contrast agent, permitting visualization of internal structures.

In imaging of the body, iodinated contrast agents diffuse from the vascular into the extravascular space. In a normal brain with an intact blood-brain barrier, contrast does not diffuse into the extravascular space. In patients with a disrupted blood- brain barrier, contrast agent accumulates in the interstitial space in the region of disruption.

12.2 Pharmacodynamics

Following administration of iodixanol, the degree of enhancement is directly related to the iodine content in an administered dose. Peak iodine plasma levels occur immediately following rapid injection. The time to maximum contrast enhancement can vary, depending on the organ, from the time that peak blood iodine concentrations are reached to one hour after intravenous bolus administration. When a delay between peak blood iodine concentrations and peak contrast is present, it suggests that radiographic contrast enhancement is at least in part dependent on the accumulation of iodine-containing medium within the lesion and outside the blood pool.

For angiography, contrast enhancement is greatest immediately (15 seconds to 120 seconds) after rapid injection. Iodinated contrast agents may be visualized in the renal parenchyma within 30 to 60 seconds following rapid intravenous injection. Opacification of the calyces and pelves in patients with normal renal function becomes apparent within 1 to 3 minutes, with optimum contrast occurring within 5 to 15 minutes.

12.3 Pharmacokinetics

13.1 Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility

Long-term animal studies have not been performed with iodixanol to evaluate carcinogenic potential. Iodixanol was not genotoxic in a series of studies including the Ames test, the CHO/HGPRT assay, a chromosome aberration assay in CHO cells, and a mouse micronucleus assay.

Iodixanol did not impair the fertility of male or female rats when administered at doses up to 0.24 times the maximum recommended human dose.

14.1 Intra-arterial Administration Studies

Angiocardiography, cerebral arteriography, peripheral arteriography, and visceral arteriography were studied with either one or both concentrations of iodixanol injection (270 mg Iodine/mL or 320 mg Iodine/mL). In these intra-arterial studies, diagnostic visualization ratings were good or excellent in all the patients and a radiologic diagnosis was made in all of the patients. In additional intra-arterial studies, overall quality of diagnostic visualization was rated optimal in the majority of patients and a radiologic diagnosis was made in all (100%) of the patients. The number of patients studied in each indication is provided below.

Angiocardiography was evaluated in two randomized, double-blind clinical studies in 101 adult patients given iodixanol 320 mg Iodine/mL. Seven additional angiocardiography studies were performed in 217 adult patients given iodixanol 320 mg Iodine/mL. Visualization ratings were good or excellent in all the patients given iodixanol; a radiologic diagnosis was made in the majority of the patients. Confirmation of the radiologic findings by other diagnostic methods was not obtained.

Cerebral arteriography was evaluated in two randomized, double-blind clinical trials in 51 adult patients given iodixanol 320 mg Iodine/mL. Two additional cerebral arteriography studies were performed in 15 adult patients given iodixanol 270 mg Iodine/mL, 40 patients given iodixanol 320 mg Iodine/mL. Visualization ratings were good or excellent in all the patients a radiologic diagnosis was made in the majority of the patients. Confirmation of the radiologic findings by other diagnostic methods was not obtained.

Peripheral arteriography was evaluated in two randomized, double-blind clinical trials in 49 adult patients given iodixanol 320 mg Iodine/mL. Four additional peripheral arteriography studies were performed in 41 adult patients given iodixanol 270 mg Iodine/mL, 85 patients given iodixanol 320 mg Iodine/mL. Visualization ratings were good or excellent in 100% of the patients given iodixanol; a radiologic diagnosis was made in the majority of the patients. Confirmation of the radiologic findings by other diagnostic methods was not obtained.

Visceral arteriography was evaluated in two randomized, double-blind clinical trials in 55 adult patients given iodixanol 320 mg Iodine/mL. Visualization ratings were good or excellent in all of the patients; a radiologic diagnosis was made in the majority of the patients. Confirmation of the radiologic findings by other diagnostic methods was not obtained.

Similar studies with digital subtraction angiography (DSA) were completed with comparable findings noted in cerebral arteriography, peripheral arteriography, and visceral arteriography. Studies have not been conducted to determine the lowest effective concentration of iodixanol.

14.2 Intravenous Administration Studies

Excretory urography, computed tomography (CT) of the head, CT of the body, peripheral venography, and coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) were studied with either one or both iodixanol injection concentrations (270 mg Iodine/mL or 320 mg Iodine/mL). In the non-CCTA intravenous studies, diagnostic visualization ratings were good or excellent in 96% to 100% of the patients and a radiologic diagnosis was made in all of the patients given iodixanol. In the CCTA studies results were computed in terms of sensitivity and specificity compared to a standard of reference. The number of patients studied in each indication is provided below.

Excretory urography was evaluated in one uncontrolled, unblinded clinical trial in 40 patients, 20 given iodixanol 270 mg Iodine/mL and 20 given iodixanol 320 mg Iodine/mL, and in two randomized, double-blind clinical trials in 50 adult patients given iodixanol 270 mg Iodine/mL, 50 patients given iodixanol 320 mg Iodine/mL. Visualization ratings were good or excellent in all of the patients given iodixanol; a radiologic diagnosis was made in the majority of the patients. Confirmation of the radiologic findings by other diagnostic methods was not obtained.

CT of the head was evaluated in two randomized, double-blind clinical trials in 49 adult patients given iodixanol 270 mg Iodine/mL, in 50 patients given iodixanol 320 mg Iodine/mL. CT of the body was evaluated in three randomized, double-blind clinical trials in 104 adult patients given iodixanol 270 mg Iodine/mL, and 109 patients given iodixanol 320 mg Iodine/mL. In both CT of the head and body, visualization ratings were good or excellent in all of the patients given iodixanol; a radiologic diagnosis was made in the majority of the patients. Confirmation of the radiologic findings by other diagnostic methods was not obtained.

Peripheral venography was evaluated in two randomized, double-blind clinical studies in 46 adult patients given iodixanol 270 mg Iodine/mL. Visualization ratings were good or excellent in all of the patients given iodixanol; a radiologic diagnosis was made in the majority of the patients. The results were similar to those of the active control. Confirmation of the radiologic findings by other diagnostic methods was not obtained.

Iodixanol 320 mg Iodine/mL for CCTA was evaluated in two prospective, multicenter clinical studies in a total of 1106 adult patients. The patient population consisted of stable outpatients with chest pain or other symptoms suggestive of coronary artery disease, and no known history of coronary disease. All the CCTAs were done using 64 detector row CT scanners. Most of the patients received beta-blocker medication for heart rate control and nitroglycerin for vasodilation. Patients with irregular cardiac rhythm or heart rate above 100 beats per minute were excluded. The mean patient age was 57 years in the first study and 59 years in the second study. Both studies had more men than women (59% male in the first study and 51% male in the second study), and more Caucasian patients (88% in the first study and 78% in the second study) than Black, Asian, or other patients. The BMI range was 17 to 50 with a mean of 31 in the first study and a BMI range of 15 to 71 with a mean of 30 in the second study.

In the first study, 230 patients (906 vessels) were evaluable for efficacy using the reference standard of invasive coronary angiography. Seventy-five vessels (8%, in 49 patients) were evaluated as positive for ≥50% stenosis. The CCTA images were randomized and read by three blinded, independent readers; the coronary angiography images were interpreted by an independent, blinded reader. Assuming independence between vessels, the vessel-level sensitivity (95% CI) for assessing ≥50% stenosis was 76% (63, 86) for reader 1, 89% (79, 95) for reader 2 and 77% (65, 86) for reader 3. The vessel-level specificity (95% CI) was 85% (81, 89) for reader 1, 84% (81, 87) for reader 2, and 89% (86, 91) for reader 3. The vessel-level sensitivity and specificity for assessing ≥70% stenosis were similar.

In a second study, 857 patients were evaluable for efficacy. Patients were followed up for 12 months after CCTA and the reference standard was a composite of pre-specified clinical outcomes (death, major adverse cardiac event, or coronary revascularization). Seventy-six patients (9%) experienced one or more of the pre-specified outcomes over 12 months of follow-up. The sensitivity (95% CI) and specificity (95% CI) of a positive CCTA finding (≥50% stenosis at the patient level) to predict one or more of the pre-specified clinical outcomes was 95% (87, 99) and 87% (84, 89), respectively.

16.1 How Supplied

Iodixanol injection, USP is a ready-to-use sterile, pyrogen-free, preservative free, colorless to pale yellow solution available in two (2) strengths. It is supplied in the following configurations:

Iodixanol Injection, USP, 270 mg Iodine/mL:

Iodixanol Injection, USP, 320 mg Iodine/mL:

16.2 Storage and Handling

Protect iodixanol injection, USP from direct exposure to sunlight.

Store iodixanol injection, USP at controlled room temperature, 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F); excursions permitted to 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F) [see USP Controlled Room Temperature].

Iodixanol injection, USP may be stored in a contrast media warmer for up to one month at 37°C (98.6°F).

Do not freeze. Discard any product that is inadvertently frozen, as freezing may compromise the closure integrity of the immediate container.

DO NOT USE IF TAMPER-EVIDENT RING IS BROKEN OR MISSING.

Betamethasone Sodium Phosphate and Betamethasone Acetate Injectable Suspension should not be administered intravenously.

Serious Neurologic Adverse Reactions with Epidural Administration

Serious neurologic events, some resulting in death, have been reported with epidural injection of corticosteroids. Specific events reported include, but are not limited to, spinal cord infarction, paraplegia, quadriplegia, cortical blindness, and stroke. These serious neurologic events have been reported with and without use of fluoroscopy. The safety and effectiveness of epidural administration of corticosteroids have not been established, and corticosteroids are not approved for this use.

General

Rare instances of anaphylactoid/anaphylactic reactions with a possibility of shock have occurred in patients receiving parenteral corticosteroid therapy (see ADVERSE REACTIONS). Use caution in patients who have a history of allergic reaction to corticosteroids.

In patients on corticosteroid therapy subjected to any unusual stress, hydrocortisone or cortisone is the drug of choice as a supplement during and after the event.

Cardio-Renal

Average and large doses of corticosteroids can cause elevation of blood pressure, salt and water retention, and increased excretion of potassium. These effects are less likely to occur with the synthetic derivatives except when used in large doses. Dietary salt restriction and potassium supplementation may be necessary. All corticosteroids increase calcium excretion.

Literature reports suggest an apparent association between use of corticosteroids and left ventricular free wall rupture after a recent myocardial infarction; therefore, therapy with corticosteroids should be used with great caution in these patients.

Endocrine

Corticosteroids can produce reversible hypothalamic pituitary adrenal (HPA) axis suppression with the potential for glucocorticosteroid insufficiency after withdrawal of treatment.

Metabolic clearance of corticosteroids is decreased in hypothyroid patients and increased in hyperthyroid patients. Changes in thyroid status of the patient may necessitate adjustment in dosage.

Infections

Neurologic

Reports of severe medical events have been associated with the intrathecal route of administration (see ADVERSE REACTIONS, Gastrointestinal and Neurologic/Psychiatric sections).

Results from one multicenter, randomized, placebo-controlled study with methylprednisolone hemisuccinate, an intravenous corticosteroid, showed an increase in early mortality (at 2 weeks) and late mortality (at 6 months) in patients with cranial trauma who were determined not to have other clear indications for corticosteroid treatment. High doses of corticosteroids, including Betamethasone Sodium Phosphate and Betamethasone Acetate Injectable Suspension, should not be used for the treatment of traumatic brain injury.

Ophthalmic

Use of corticosteroids may produce posterior subcapsular cataracts, increased intraocular pressure, glaucoma with possible damage to the optic nerves, and may enhance the establishment of secondary ocular infections due to bacteria, fungi, or viruses. Consider referral to an ophthalmologist for patients who develop ocular symptoms or use corticosteroid-containing products for more than 6 weeks. The use of oral corticosteroids is not recommended in the treatment of optic neuritis and may lead to an increase in the risk of new episodes. Corticosteroids should not be used in active ocular herpes simplex.

General

This product, like many other steroid formulations, is sensitive to heat. Therefore, it should not be autoclaved when it is desirable to sterilize the exterior of the vial.

The lowest possible dose of corticosteroid should be used to control the condition under treatment. When reduction in dosage is possible, the reduction should be gradual.

Since complications of treatment with glucocorticoids are dependent on the size of the dose and the duration of treatment, a risk/benefit decision must be made in each individual case as to dose and duration of treatment and as to whether daily or intermittent therapy should be used.

Kaposi’s sarcoma has been reported to occur in patients receiving corticosteroid therapy, most often for chronic conditions. Discontinuation of corticosteroids may result in clinical improvement.

Cardio-Renal

As sodium retention with resultant edema and potassium loss may occur in patients receiving corticosteroids, these agents should be used with caution in patients with congestive heart failure, hypertension, or renal insufficiency.

Endocrine

Drug-induced secondary adrenocortical insufficiency may be minimized by gradual reduction of dosage. This type of relative insufficiency may persist for months after discontinuation of therapy. Therefore, in any situation of stress occurring during that period, naturally occurring glucocorticoids (hydrocortisone cortisone), which also have salt-retaining properties, rather than betamethasone, are the appropriate choices as replacement therapy in adrenocortical deficiency states.

Gastrointestinal

Steroids should be used with caution in active or latent peptic ulcers, diverticulitis, fresh intestinal anastomoses, and nonspecific ulcerative colitis, since they may increase the risk of a perforation.

Signs of peritoneal irritation following gastrointestinal perforation in patients receiving corticosteroids may be minimal or absent.

There is an enhanced effect of corticosteroids in patients with cirrhosis.

Intra-Articular and Soft Tissue Administration

Intra-articular injected corticosteroids may be systemically absorbed.

Appropriate examination of any joint fluid present is necessary to exclude a septic process.

A marked increase in pain accompanied by local swelling, further restriction of joint motion, fever, and malaise are suggestive of septic arthritis. If this complication occurs and the diagnosis of sepsis is confirmed, appropriate antimicrobial therapy should be instituted.

Injection of a steroid into an infected site is to be avoided. Local injection of a steroid into a previously injected joint is not usually recommended.

Corticosteroid injection into unstable joints is generally not recommended.

Intra-articular injection may result in damage to joint tissues (see ADVERSE REACTIONS, Musculoskeletal section).

Musculoskeletal

Corticosteroids decrease bone formation and increase bone resorption both through their effect on calcium regulation (i.e., decreasing absorption and increasing excretion) and inhibition of osteoblast function. This, together with a decrease in the protein matrix of the bone secondary to an increase in protein catabolism, and reduced sex hormone production, may lead to inhibition of bone growth in pediatric patients and the development of osteoporosis at any age. Special consideration should be given to patients at increased risk of osteoporosis (i.e., postmenopausal women) before initiating corticosteroid therapy.

Neuro-Psychiatric

Although controlled clinical trials have shown corticosteroids to be effective in speeding the resolution of acute exacerbations of multiple sclerosis, they do not show that they affect the ultimate outcome or natural history of the disease. The studies do show that relatively high doses of corticosteroids are necessary to demonstrate a significant effect (see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION).

An acute myopathy has been observed with the use of high doses of corticosteroids, most often occurring in patients with disorders with neuromuscular transmission (e.g., myasthenia gravis), or in patients receiving concomitant therapy of neuromuscular blocking drugs (eg, pancuronium). This acute myopathy is generalized, may involve ocular and respiratory muscles, and may result in quadriparesis. Elevation of creatinine kinase may occur. Clinical improvement or recovery after stopping corticosteroids may require weeks to years.

Psychic derangements may appear when corticosteroids are used, ranging from euphoria, insomnia, mood swings, personality changes, and severe depression to frank psychotic manifestations. Also, existing emotional instability or psychotic tendencies may be aggravated by corticosteroids.

Information for Patients

Patients should be warned not to discontinue the use of corticosteroids abruptly or without medical supervision, to advise any medical attendants that they are taking corticosteroids and to seek medical advice at once should they develop fever or other signs of infection.

Persons who are on corticosteroids should be warned to avoid exposure to chickenpox or measles. Patients should also be advised that if they are exposed, medical advice should be sought without delay.

Drug Interactions

Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility

No adequate studies have been conducted in animals to determine whether corticosteroids have a potential for carcinogenesis or mutagenesis.

Steroids may increase or decrease motility and number of spermatozoa in some patients.

Pregnancy

Nursing Mothers

Systemically administered corticosteroids appear in human milk and could suppress growth, interfere with endogenous corticosteroid production, or cause other untoward effects. Caution should be exercised when corticosteroids are administered to a nursing woman.

Pediatric Use

The efficacy and safety of corticosteroids in the pediatric population are based on the well-established course of effect of corticosteroids, which is similar in pediatric and adult populations. Published studies provide evidence of efficacy and safety in pediatric patients for the treatment of nephrotic syndrome (> 2 years of age), and aggressive lymphomas and leukemias (> 1 month of age). Other indications for pediatric use of corticosteroids, e.g., severe asthma and wheezing, are based on adequate and well-controlled trials conducted in adults, on the premises that the course of the diseases and their pathophysiology are considered to be substantially similar in both populations.

The adverse effects of corticosteroids in pediatric patients are similar to those in adults (see ADVERSE REACTIONS). Like adults, pediatric patients should be carefully observed with frequent measurements of blood pressure, weight, height, intraocular pressure, and clinical evaluation for the presence of infection, psychosocial disturbances, thromboembolism, peptic ulcers, cataracts, and osteoporosis. Pediatric patients who are treated with corticosteroids by any route, including systemically administered corticosteroids, may experience a decrease in their growth velocity. This negative impact of corticosteroids on growth has been observed at low systemic doses and in the absence of laboratory evidence of HPA axis suppression (i.e., cosyntropin stimulation and basal cortisol plasma levels). Growth velocity may therefore be a more sensitive indicator of systemic corticosteroid exposure in pediatric patients than some commonly used tests of HPA axis function. The linear growth of pediatric patients treated with corticosteroids should be monitored, and the potential growth effects of prolonged treatment should be weighed against clinical benefits obtained and the availability of treatment alternatives. In order to minimize the potential growth effects of corticosteroids, pediatric patients should be titrated to the lowest effective dose.

Geriatric Use

No overall differences in safety or effectiveness were observed between elderly subjects and younger subjects, and other reported clinical experience has not identified differences in responses between the elderly and young patients, but greater sensitivity of some older individuals cannot be ruled out.

Bursitis, Tenosynovitis, Peritendinitis

In acute subdeltoid, subacromial, olecranon, and prepatellar bursitis, one intrabursal injection of 1 mL Betamethasone Sodium Phosphate and Betamethasone Acetate Injectable Suspension can relieve pain and restore full range of movement. Several intrabursal injections of corticosteroids are usually required in recurrent acute bursitis and in acute exacerbations of chronic bursitis. Partial relief of pain and some increase in mobility can be expected in both conditions after one or two injections. Chronic bursitis may be treated with reduced dosage once the acute condition is controlled. In tenosynovitis and tendinitis, three or four local injections at intervals of 1 to 2 weeks between injections are given in most cases. Injections should be made into the affected tendon sheaths rather than into the tendons themselves. In ganglions of joint capsules and tendon sheaths, injection of 0.5 mL directly into the ganglion cysts has produced marked reduction in the size of the lesions.

Rheumatoid Arthritis and Osteoarthritis

Following intra-articular administration of 0.5 to 2 mL of Betamethasone Sodium Phosphate and Betamethasone Acetate Injectable Suspension, relief of pain, soreness, and stiffness may be experienced. Duration of relief varies widely in both diseases. Intra-articular Injection of Betamethasone Sodium Phosphate and Betamethasone Acetate Injectable Suspension is well tolerated in joints and periarticular tissues. There is virtually no pain on injection, and the “secondary flare” that sometimes occurs a few hours after intra-articular injection of corticosteroids has not been reported with Betamethasone Sodium Phosphate and Betamethasone Acetate Injectable Suspension. Using sterile technique, a 20- to 24-gauge needle on an empty syringe is inserted into the synovial cavity and a few drops of synovial fluid are withdrawn to confirm that the needle is in the joint. The aspirating syringe is replaced by a syringe containing Betamethasone Sodium Phosphate and Betamethasone Acetate Injectable Suspension and injection is then made into the joint.

A portion of the administered dose of Betamethasone Sodium Phosphate and Betamethasone Acetate Injectable Suspension is absorbed systemically following intra-articular injection. In patients being treated concomitantly with oral or parenteral corticosteroids, especially those receiving large doses, the systemic absorption of the drug should be considered in determining intra-articular dosage.

Dermatologic Conditions

In intralesional treatment, 0.2 mL/cm 2of Betamethasone Sodium Phosphate and Betamethasone Acetate Injectable Suspension is injected intradermally (not subcutaneously) using a tuberculin syringe with a 25-gauge, 1/2-inch needle. Care should be taken to deposit a uniform depot of medication intradermally. A total of no more than 1 mL at weekly intervals is recommended.

Disorders of the Foot

A tuberculin syringe with a 25-gauge, 3/4-inch needle is suitable for most injections into the foot. The following doses are recommended at intervals of 3 days to a week.

Mechanism of Action

Lidocaine hydrochloride stabilizes the neuronal membrane by inhibiting the ionic fluxes required for the initiation and conduction of impulses thereby effecting local anesthetic action.

Hemodynamics

Excessive blood levels may cause changes in cardiac output, total peripheral resistance, and mean arterial pressure. With central neural blockade these changes may be attributable to block of autonomic fibers, a direct depressant effect of the local anesthetic agent on various components of the cardiovascular system, and/or the beta-adrenergic receptor stimulating action of epinephrine when present. The net effect is normally a modest hypotension when the recommended dosages are not exceeded.

Pharmacokinetics and Metabolism

Information derived from diverse formulations, concentrations and usages reveals that lidocaine hydrochloride is completely absorbed following parenteral administration, its rate of absorption depending, for example, upon various factors such as the site of administration and the presence or absence of a vasoconstrictor agent. Except for intravascular administration, the highest blood levels are obtained following intercostal nerve block and the lowest after subcutaneous administration.

The plasma binding of lidocaine hydrochloride is dependent on drug concentration, and the fraction bound decreases with increasing concentration. At concentrations of 1 to 4 mcg of free base per mL 60 to 80 percent of lidocaine hydrochloride is protein bound. Binding is also dependent on the plasma concentration of the alpha-1-acid glycoprotein.

Lidocaine hydrochloride crosses the blood-brain and placental barriers, presumably by passive diffusion.

Lidocaine hydrochloride is metabolized rapidly by the liver, and metabolites and unchanged drug are excreted by the kidneys. Biotransformation includes oxidative N-dealkylation, ring hydroxylation, cleavage of the amide linkage, and conjugation. N-dealkylation, a major pathway of biotransformation, yields the metabolites monoethylglycinexylidide and glycinexylidide. The pharmacological/toxicological actions of these metabolites are similar to, but less potent than, those of lidocaine hydrochloride. Approximately 90% of lidocaine hydrochloride administered is excreted in the form of various metabolites, and less than 10% is excreted unchanged. The primary metabolite in urine is a conjugate of 4-hydroxy-2,6-dimethylaniline.

The elimination half-life of lidocaine hydrochloride following an intravenous bolus injection is typically 1.5 to 2 hours. Because of the rapid rate at which lidocaine hydrochloride is metabolized, any condition that affects liver function may alter lidocaine hydrochloride kinetics. The half-life may be prolonged two-fold or more in patients with liver dysfunction. Renal dysfunction does not affect lidocaine hydrochloride kinetics but may increase the accumulation of metabolites.

Factors such as acidosis and the use of CNS stimulants and depressants affect the CNS levels of lidocaine hydrochloride required to produce overt systemic effects. Objective adverse manifestations become increasingly apparent with increasing venous plasma levels above 6 mcg free base per mL. In the rhesus monkey arterial blood levels of 18 to 21 mcg/mL have been shown to be threshold for convulsive activity.

General

The safety and effectiveness of lidocaine hydrochloride depend on proper dosage, correct technique, adequate precautions, and readiness for emergencies. Standard textbooks should be consulted for specific techniques and precautions for various regional anesthetic procedures.

Resuscitative equipment, oxygen, and other resuscitative drugs should be available for immediate use (see WARNINGSand ADVERSE REACTIONS). The lowest dosage that results in effective anesthesia should be used to avoid high plasma levels and serious adverse effects. Syringe aspirations should also be performed before and during each supplemental injection when using indwelling catheter techniques. During the administration of epidural anesthesia, it is recommended that a test dose be administered initially and that the patient be monitored for central nervous system toxicity and cardiovascular toxicity, as well as for signs of unintended intrathecal administration, before proceeding. When clinical conditions permit, consideration should be given to employing local anesthetic solutions that contain epinephrine for the test dose because circulatory changes compatible with epinephrine may also serve as a warning sign of unintended intravascular injection. An intravascular injection is still possible even if aspirations for blood are negative. Repeated doses of lidocaine hydrochloride may cause significant increases in blood levels with each repeated dose because of slow accumulation of the drug or its metabolites. Tolerance to elevated blood levels varies with the status of the patient. Debilitated, elderly patients, acutely ill patients, and children should be given reduced doses commensurate with their age and physical condition. Lidocaine hydrochloride should also be used with caution in patients with severe shock or heart block.

Lumbar and caudal epidural anesthesia should be used with extreme caution in persons with the following conditions: existing neurological disease, spinal deformities, septicemia, and severe hypertension.

Local anesthetic solutions containing a vasoconstrictor should be used cautiously and in carefully circumscribed quantities in areas of the body supplied by end arteries or having otherwise compromised blood supply. Patients with peripheral vascular disease and those with hypertensive vascular disease may exhibit exaggerated vasoconstrictor response. Ischemic injury or necrosis may result. Preparations containing a vasoconstrictor should be used with caution in patients during or following the administration of potent general anesthetic agents, since cardiac arrhythmias may occur under such conditions.

Careful and constant monitoring of cardiovascular and respiratory (adequacy of ventilation) vital signs and the patient’s state of consciousness should be accomplished after each local anesthetic injection. It should be kept in mind at such times that restlessness, anxiety, tinnitus, dizziness, blurred vision, tremors, depression or drowsiness may be early warning signs of central nervous system toxicity.

Since amide-type local anesthetics are metabolized by the liver, lidocaine hydrochloride injection should be used with caution in patients with hepatic disease. Patients with severe hepatic disease, because of their inability to metabolize local anesthetics normally, are at greater risk of developing toxic plasma concentrations. Lidocaine hydrochloride injection should also be used with caution in patients with impaired cardiovascular function since they may be less able to compensate for functional changes associated with the prolongation of A-V conduction produced by these drugs.

Many drugs used during the conduct of anesthesia are considered potential triggering agents for familial malignant hyperthermia. Since it is not known whether amide-type local anesthetics may trigger this reaction and since the need for supplemental general anesthesia cannot be predicted in advance, it is suggested that a standard protocol for the management of malignant hyperthermia should be available. Early unexplained signs of tachycardia, tachypnea, labile blood pressure and metabolic acidosis may precede temperature elevation. Successful outcome is dependent on early diagnosis, prompt discontinuance of the suspect triggering agent(s) and institution of treatment, including oxygen therapy, indicated supportive measures and dantrolene (consult dantrolene sodium intravenous package insert before using).

Proper tourniquet technique, as described in publications and standard textbooks, is essential in the performance of intravenous regional anesthesia. Solutions containing epinephrine or other vasoconstrictors should not be used for this technique.

Lidocaine hydrochloride should be used with caution in persons with known drug sensitivities. Patients allergic to para-aminobenzoic acid derivatives (procaine, tetracaine, benzocaine, etc.) have not shown cross-sensitivity to lidocaine hydrochloride.

Use in the Head and Neck Area

Small doses of local anesthetics injected into the head and neck area, including retrobulbar, dental and stellate ganglion blocks, may produce adverse reactions similar to systemic toxicity seen with unintentional intravascular injections of larger doses. Confusion, convulsions, respiratory depression and/or respiratory arrest, and cardiovascular stimulation or depression have been reported. These reactions may be due to intra-arterial injection of the local anesthetic with retrograde flow to the cerebral circulation. Patients receiving these blocks should have their circulation and respiration monitored and be constantly observed. Resuscitative equipment and personnel for treating adverse reactions should be immediately available. Dosage recommendations should not be exceeded (see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION).

Information for Patients

When appropriate, patients should be informed in advance that they may experience temporary loss of sensation and motor activity, usually in the lower half of the body, following proper administration of epidural anesthesia.

Inform patients that use of local anesthetics may cause methemoglobinemia, a serious condition that must be treated promptly. Advise patients or caregivers to seek immediate medical attention if they or someone in their care experience the following signs or symptoms: pale, gray, or blue colored skin (cyanosis); headache; rapid heart rate; shortness of breath; lightheadedness; or fatigue.

Clinically Significant Drug Interactions

The administration of local anesthetic solutions containing epinephrine or norepinephrine to patients receiving monoamine oxidase inhibitors or tricyclic antidepressants may produce severe, prolonged hypertension.

Phenothiazines and butyrophenones may reduce or reverse the pressor effect of epinephrine.

Concurrent use of these agents should generally be avoided. In situations when concurrent therapy is necessary, careful patient monitoring is essential.

Concurrent administration of vasopressor drugs (for the treatment of hypotension related to obstetric blocks) and ergot-type oxytocic drugs may cause severe, persistent hypertension or cerebrovascular accidents.

Drug/Laboratory Test Interactions

The intramuscular injection of lidocaine hydrochloride may result in an increase in creatine phosphokinase levels. Thus, the use of this enzyme determination, without isoenzyme separation, as a diagnostic test for the presence of acute myocardial infarction may be compromised by the intramuscular injection of lidocaine hydrochloride.

Patients who are administered local anesthetics are at increased risk of developing methemoglobinemia when concurrently exposed to the following drugs, which could include other local anesthetics:

Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility

Studies of lidocaine hydrochloride in animals to evaluate the carcinogenic and mutagenic potential or the effect on fertility have not been conducted.

Pregnancy

Labor and Delivery

Local anesthetics rapidly cross the placenta and when used for epidural, paracervical, pudendal or caudal block anesthesia, can cause varying degrees of maternal, fetal and neonatal toxicity (see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY, Pharmacokinetics and Metabolism). The potential for toxicity depends upon the procedure performed, the type and amount of drug used, and the technique of drug administration. Adverse reactions in the parturient, fetus and neonate involve alterations of the central nervous system, peripheral vascular tone and cardiac function.

Maternal hypotension has resulted from regional anesthesia. Local anesthetics produce vasodilation by blocking sympathetic nerves. Elevating the patient’s legs and positioning her on her left side will help prevent decreases in blood pressure.

The fetal heart rate also should be monitored continuously, and electronic fetal monitoring is highly advisable.

Epidural, spinal, paracervical, or pudendal anesthesia may alter the forces of parturition through changes in uterine contractility or maternal expulsive efforts. In one study, paracervical block anesthesia was associated with a decrease in the mean duration of first stage labor and facilitation of cervical dilation. However, spinal and epidural anesthesia have also been reported to prolong the second stage of labor by removing the parturient’s reflex urge to bear down or by interfering with motor function. The use of obstetrical anesthesia may increase the need for forceps assistance.

The use of some local anesthetic drug products during labor and delivery may be followed by diminished muscle strength and tone for the first day or two of life. The long-term significance of these observations is unknown. Fetal bradycardia may occur in 20 to 30 percent of patients receiving paracervical nerve block anesthesia with the amide-type local anesthetics and may be associated with fetal acidosis. Fetal heart rate should always be monitored during paracervical anesthesia. The physician should weigh the possible advantages against risks when considering a paracervical block in prematurity, toxemia of pregnancy, and fetal distress. Careful adherence to recommended dosage is of the utmost importance in obstetrical paracervical block. Failure to achieve adequate analgesia with recommended doses should arouse suspicion of intravascular or fetal intracranial injection. Cases compatible with unintended fetal intracranial injection of local anesthetic solution have been reported following intended paracervical or pudendal block or both. Babies so affected present with unexplained neonatal depression at birth, which correlates with high local anesthetic serum levels, and often manifest seizures within six hours. Prompt use of supportive measures combined with forced urinary excretion of the local anesthetic has been used successfully to manage this complication.

Case reports of maternal convulsions and cardiovascular collapse following use of some local anesthetics for paracervical block in early pregnancy (as anesthesia for elective abortion) suggest that systemic absorption under these circumstances may be rapid. The recommended maximum dose of each drug should not be exceeded. Injection should be made slowly and with frequent aspiration. Allow a 5-minute interval between sides.

Nursing Mothers

It is not known whether this drug is excreted in human milk. Because many drugs are excreted in human milk, caution should be exercised when lidocaine hydrochloride is administered to a nursing woman.

Pediatric Use

Dosages in children should be reduced, commensurate with age, body weight and physical condition, see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION.

Systemic

Adverse experiences following the administration of lidocaine hydrochloride are similar in nature to those observed with other amide local anesthetic agents. These adverse experiences are, in general, dose-related and may result from high plasma levels caused by excessive dosage, rapid absorption or inadvertent intravascular injection, or may result from a hypersensitivity, idiosyncrasy or diminished tolerance on the part of the patient. Serious adverse experiences are generally systemic in nature. The following types are those most commonly reported:

Management of Local Anesthetic Emergencies

The first consideration is prevention, best accomplished by careful and constant monitoring of cardiovascular and respiratory vital signs and the patient’s state of consciousness after each local anesthetic injection. At the first sign of change, oxygen should be administered.

The first step in the management of convulsions, as well as underventilation or apnea due to unintended subarachnoid injection of drug solution, consists of immediate attention to the maintenance of a patent airway and assisted or controlled ventilation with oxygen and a delivery system capable of permitting immediate positive airway pressure by mask. Immediately after the institution of these ventilatory measures, the adequacy of the circulation should be evaluated, keeping in mind that drugs used to treat convulsions sometimes depress the circulation when administered intravenously. Should convulsions persist despite adequate respiratory support, and if the status of the circulation permits, small increments of an ultra-short acting barbiturate (such as thiopental or thiamylal) or a benzodiazepine (such as diazepam) may be administered intravenously. The clinician should be familiar, prior to the use of local anesthetics, with these anticonvulsant drugs. Supportive treatment of circulatory depression may require administration of intravenous fluids and, when appropriate, a vasopressor as directed by the clinical situation (e.g., ephedrine).

If not treated immediately, both convulsions and cardiovascular depression can result in hypoxia, acidosis, bradycardia, arrhythmias and cardiac arrest. Underventilation or apnea due to unintentional subarachnoid injection of local anesthetic solution may produce these same signs and also lead to cardiac arrest if ventilatory support is not instituted. If cardiac arrest should occur, standard cardiopulmonary resuscitative measures should be instituted.

Endotracheal intubation, employing drugs and techniques familiar to the clinician, may be indicated, after initial administration of oxygen by mask, if difficulty is encountered in the maintenance of a patent airway or if prolonged ventilatory support (assisted or controlled) is indicated.

Dialysis is of negligible value in the treatment of acute overdosage with lidocaine hydrochloride.

The oral LD 50of lidocaine hydrochloride in non-fasted female rats is 459 (346 to 773) mg/kg (as the salt) and 214 (159 to 324) mg/kg (as the salt) in fasted female rats.

Epidural Anesthesia

For epidural anesthesia the following dosage form of lidocaine hydrochloride injection is recommended:

1% without epinephrine 30 mL single dose vials

Although this solution is intended specifically for epidural anesthesia, it may also be used for infiltration and peripheral nerve block, provided it is employed as a single dose unit.

This solution contains no bacteriostatic agent.

In epidural anesthesia, the dosage varies with the number of dermatomes to be anesthetized (generally 2 to 3 mL of the indicated concentration per dermatome).

Caudal and Lumbar Epidural Block

As a precaution against the adverse experience sometimes observed following unintentional penetration of the subarachnoid space, a test dose such as 2 to 3 mL of 1.5% lidocaine hydrochloride should be administered at least 5 minutes prior to injecting the total volume required for a lumbar or caudal epidural block. The test dose should be repeated if the patient is moved in a manner that may have displaced the catheter. Epinephrine, if contained in the test dose (10 to 15 mcg have been suggested), may serve as a warning of unintentional intravascular injection. If injected into a blood vessel, this amount of epinephrine is likely to produce a transient “epinephrine response” within 45 seconds, consisting of an increase in heart rate and systolic blood pressure, circumoral pallor, palpitations and nervousness in the unsedated patient. The sedated patient may exhibit only a pulse rate increase of 20 or more beats per minute for 15 or more seconds. Patients on beta blockers may not manifest changes in heart rate, but blood pressure monitoring can detect an evanescent rise in systolic blood pressure. Adequate time should be allowed for onset of anesthesia after administration of each test dose. The rapid injection of a large volume of lidocaine hydrochloride injection through the catheter should be avoided, and, when feasible, fractional doses should be administered.

In the event of the known injection of a large volume of local anesthetic solution into the subarachnoid space, after suitable resuscitation and if the catheter is in place, consider attempting the recovery of drug by draining a moderate amount of cerebrospinal fluid (such as 10 mL) through the epidural catheter.

Adults

For normal healthy adults, the maximum individual dose should not exceed 4.5 mg/kg (2 mg/lb) of body weight, and in general it is recom mended that the max i m um t otal dose does not exceed 300 mg. For continuous epidural or caudal anesthesia, the maximum recommended dosage should not be administered at intervals of less than 90 minutes. When continuous lumbar or caudal epidural anesthesia is used for non-obstetrical procedures, more drug may be administered if required to produce adequate anesthesia.

The maximum recommended dose per 90 minute period of lidocaine hydrochloride for paracervical block in obstetrical patients and non-obstetrical patients is 200 mg total. One half of the total dose is usually administered to each side. Inject slowly, five minutes between sides (see also discussion of paracervical block in PRECAUTIONS).

For intravenous regional anesthesia, the dose administered should not exceed 4 mg/kg in adults.

Children

It is difficult to recommend a maximum dose of any drug for children, since this varies as a function of age and weight. For children over 3 years of age who have a normal lean body mass and normal body development, the maximum dose is determined by the child’s age and weight. For example, in a child of 5 years weighing 50 lbs the dose of lidocaine hydrochloride should not exceed 75 to 100 mg (1.5 to 2 mg/lb). The use of even more dilute solutions (i.e., 0.25 to 0.5%) and total dosages not to exceed 3 mg/kg (1.4 mg/lb) are recommended for induction of intravenous regional anesthesia in children.

In order to guard against systemic toxicity, the lowest effective concentration and lowest effective dose should be used at all times. In some cases it will be necessary to dilute available concentrations with 0.9% sodium chloride injection in order to obtain the required final concentration.

NOTE: Parenteral drug products should be inspected visually for particulate matter and discoloration prior to administration whenever the solution and container permit. Do not use if solution is discolored or contains a precipitate.

THE ABOVE SUGGESTED CONCENTRATIONS AND VOLUMES SERVE ONLY AS A GUIDE. OTHER VOLUMES AND CONCENTRATIONS MAY BE USED PROVIDED THE TOTAL MAXIMUM RECOMMENDED DOSE IS NOT EXCEEDED.

Do not use

with electrocautery procedures

When using this product do not

• get into eyes
• apply over large areas of the body
• in case of deep or puncture wounds, animal bites or serious burns consult a doctor

Stop use and ask a doctor if

• condition persists or gets worse or lasts for more than 72 hours
• do not use longer than 1 week unless directed by a doctor

Keep out of reach of children.

If swallowed, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center right away.