racepinephrine 2.25 % solution for nebulization

Generic name:
Racepinephrine - oral inhalation

Pronunciation
(RAYSE-ep-i-NEF-rin)

Brand name(s)
Asthmanefrin

Racepinephrine is used to treat wheezing and shortness of breath caused by asthma. Controlling these symptoms can decrease time lost from work or school. Racepinephrine belongs to a class of drugs known as bronchodilators. It works by relaxing the muscles around the airways so that they open up and you can breathe more easily. Use this medication only if you have been told by your doctor that you have asthma.

If you are using the over-the-counter product to self-treat, read all directions on the product package before using this medication. If you have any questions, consult your pharmacist. If your doctor has prescribed this medication, use it as directed.

This product is used with a special breathing device (such as an atomizer or nebulizer) that changes the solution to a fine mist that you inhale. Do not swallow or inject the solution. Do not mix with other medicines in your breathing device. Learn all instructions for proper use of this medication and the device. Make sure you understand how to properly clean the device to prevent infections. If you have any questions, consult your doctor, pharmacist, or respiratory therapist.

Before using, check this product for cloudiness, particles, or discoloration. If you see any of these things, do not use the liquid.

Inhale this medication into your lungs using the breathing device usually every 3 hours as needed. If a child is using this medication, an adult should supervise the child. Do not use again for at least 3 hours. Do not use more than 12 vials in a 24-hour period.

Caffeine can increase the side effects of this medication. Avoid drinking large amounts of beverages containing caffeine (coffee, tea, colas), eating large amounts of chocolate, or taking nonprescription products that contain caffeine.

If your breathing does not get better within 20 minutes after using this medication, if your breathing gets worse, or if you think you may have a serious medical problem, get medical help right away.

Headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, trouble sleeping, anxiety, nervousness, shakiness, sweating, or pale skin may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

If your doctor has directed you to use this medication, remember that your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

This medication may raise your blood pressure. Check your blood pressure regularly and tell your doctor if the results are high.

Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including:

• fast/pounding/irregular heartbeat
• mental/mood changes (such hallucinations)

Rarely, this medication may cause severe (rarely fatal), sudden worsening of breathing problems (rebound bronchospasm). If you notice a sudden worsening of breathing/wheezing, get medical help right away.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including:

• rash
• itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat)
• severe dizziness
• trouble breathing

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

In the US -

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.

In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Before using racepinephrine, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to epinephrine; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

If you have any of the following health problems, consult your doctor or pharmacist before using this product:

• heart problems (such as irregular heartbeat, high blood pressure)
• diabetes
• overactive thyroid
• mental/mood disorders (such as depression)
• Parkinson's disease
• seizures
• glaucoma (narrow angle)
• enlarged prostate

This drug may make you dizzy. Alcohol or marijuana (cannabis) can make you more dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs alertness until you can do it safely. Limit alcoholic beverages. Talk to your doctor if you are using marijuana (cannabis).

Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).

Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of this drug, especially the effects on the heart.

During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

It is unknown if this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.

Some products that may interact with this drug are:

• some beta blockers (such as propranolol)

Taking MAO inhibitors with this medication may cause a serious (possibly fatal) drug interaction. Do not take any MAO inhibitors (isocarboxazid, linezolid, methylene blue, moclobemide, phenelzine, procarbazine, rasagiline, selegiline, tranylcypromine) during treatment with this medication. Most MAO inhibitors should also not be taken for two weeks before treatment with this medication. Ask your doctor when to start or stop using this medication.

If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call 1-844-764-7669.

Lab and/or medical tests (such as blood pressure, heart rate) should be done while you are using this medication. Keep all medical and lab appointments. Consult your doctor for more details.

Avoid substances that can worsen breathing problems by causing irritation or allergic reaction, such as smoke, pollen, pet dander, dust, and mold.

Learn to use a peak flow meter, use it daily, and promptly report worsening breathing problems (such as readings in the yellow/red range, increased use of quick-relief inhalers).

Because the flu virus can worsen breathing problems, ask your doctor or pharmacist if you should have a flu shot every year.

Not applicable.

Store at room temperature away from light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medications away from children and pets.

Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.

Your condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For information about enrolling in MedicAlert, call 1-888-633-4298 (US) or 1-800-668-1507 (Canada).

HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.