Caverject Dual Chamber 20mcg Injection (2 Pre-filled Syringes) Alprostadil
Alprostadil injection is a medicine used in newborn infants with certain heart defects to temporarily keep a blood vessel called the ductus arteriosus open until surgery can be done. It is given by continuous infusion into a vein or through an umbilical artery catheter under close medical supervision.
What it is
Alprostadil is a vasodilator medicine. It works by relaxing and widening blood vessels, which helps maintain blood flow through a specific vessel in the heart of newborn babies with congenital heart defects.
What it's used for
Alprostadil injection is used for palliative (temporary) therapy to keep the ductus arteriosus open in newborn babies who have heart defects that depend on this vessel for survival. These conditions include pulmonary atresia, tricuspid atresia, tetralogy of Fallot, coarctation of the aorta, and transposition of the great vessels, among others.
Common side effects
Common side effects may include apnea (temporary stopping of breathing) in about 12% of babies, fever in about 14%, and seizures in about 4%. Other possible side effects include flushing (redness of the skin), cerebral bleeding, jitteriness, lethargy, and low body temperature.
Important cautions
Alprostadil injection must be diluted before it is given. Prolonged use (more than 120 hours) at recommended doses may increase the risk of gastric outlet obstruction due to thickening of the stomach lining. The medicine should only be used under continuous monitoring in a neonatal intensive care unit. There are no known contraindications to its use.
Frequently asked questions
What is alprostadil injection used for?
It is used in newborn babies with certain congenital heart defects to temporarily keep the ductus arteriosus open until corrective surgery can be performed.
What are the side effects of alprostadil injection?
Common side effects include apnea (breathing pauses), fever, seizures, and flushing. Less common effects include cerebral bleeding, jitteriness, and lethargy.
Can I buy alprostadil injection without a prescription in Nigeria?
According to our records, this product is classified as over-the-counter (OTC). However, since it is an injection used only in hospitalised newborns, it is administered by medical professionals. You can order it on Drugstore.ng without a prescription.
How is alprostadil injection given?
It is given as a continuous infusion through a vein or through an umbilical artery catheter. The dose is based on the baby's weight and is determined by the doctor.
Is alprostadil injection safe for all newborns?
There are no known contraindications, but it must be used under careful monitoring due to potential side effects such as apnea and gastric outlet obstruction with prolonged use.
This information is for general guidance only and is not medical advice. Please consult your physician or pharmacist before using any medication.
