Sensorcaine-Mpf 0.25%/epi Inj, 30ml

Manufacturer FRESENIUS KABI USA Active Ingredient Bupivacaine and Epinephrine(byoo PIV a kane & ep i NEF rin) Pronunciation byoo-PIV-a-kane & ep-i-NEF-rin
WARNING: Seizures, sudden loss of heart function, and death have been reported when this drug was used as an epidural during childbirth. Most of the time, this happened with a certain strength of this drug that is not meant for use during labor. If you have questions, talk with the doctor. @ COMMON USES: It is used to numb an area before a procedure.
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Drug Class
Local Anesthetic, Vasoconstrictor
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Pharmacologic Class
Amide-type local anesthetic; Alpha- and Beta-adrenergic agonist
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Pregnancy Category
Category C
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FDA Approved
Sep 1972
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DEA Schedule
Not Controlled

Overview

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What is this medicine?

This medication is a local anesthetic, or 'numbing medicine,' that is injected to block pain in a specific area of your body during a medical procedure or surgery. It contains two ingredients: bupivacaine, which causes the numbing effect, and epinephrine, which helps the numbing last longer and reduces bleeding at the injection site.
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How to Use This Medicine

Taking Your Medication

To use this medication correctly, follow your doctor's instructions and read all the information provided. It is essential to follow the instructions carefully. This medication is administered via injection.

Storing and Disposing of Your Medication

This medication will be administered in a hospital or doctor's office, so you will not need to store it at home.

Missed Doses

Since this medication is given as needed in a healthcare setting, you will not need to worry about missing a dose. The healthcare provider will administer the medication according to your specific needs.
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Lifestyle & Tips

  • Avoid alcohol and other CNS depressants immediately before and after the procedure as they can increase drowsiness.
  • Follow post-procedure instructions carefully, especially regarding activity restrictions, as the numbed area may be prone to injury until sensation returns.
  • Report any unusual symptoms or prolonged numbness/weakness to your healthcare provider.

Dosing & Administration

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Adult Dosing

Standard Dose: Varies significantly by procedure and site of injection. For infiltration: 2.5-60 mg (1-24 mL of 0.25% solution). For peripheral nerve block: 12.5-150 mg (5-60 mL of 0.25% solution). For epidural block: 25-100 mg (10-40 mL of 0.25% solution).
Dose Range: 2.5 - 200 mg

Condition-Specific Dosing:

single_dose_max: 200 mg (80 mL of 0.25% solution) for bupivacaine with epinephrine. Total daily dose should not exceed 400 mg.
infiltration: Up to 60 mg (24 mL of 0.25% solution)
peripheral_nerve_block: Up to 150 mg (60 mL of 0.25% solution)
epidural_block: Up to 100 mg (40 mL of 0.25% solution)
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Pediatric Dosing

Neonatal: Not established for routine use; extreme caution and reduced doses if used.
Infant: Not established for routine use; extreme caution and reduced doses if used. Max dose 2.5 mg/kg.
Child: Max dose 2.5 mg/kg (of bupivacaine) with epinephrine, not to exceed 100 mg total. Dosing must be individualized based on age, weight, and procedure.
Adolescent: Similar to adult dosing, but consider weight and body surface area. Max dose 2.5 mg/kg (of bupivacaine) with epinephrine, not to exceed 100 mg total.
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Dose Adjustments

Renal Impairment:

Mild: No specific adjustment generally required.
Moderate: No specific adjustment generally required, but monitor for signs of toxicity.
Severe: Use with caution. Monitor for signs of toxicity due to potential accumulation of metabolites. Consider reduced doses.
Dialysis: Not significantly dialyzable. Use with caution, monitor for toxicity.

Hepatic Impairment:

Mild: No specific adjustment generally required.
Moderate: Use with caution. Consider reduced doses and monitor for toxicity due to impaired metabolism of bupivacaine.
Severe: Contraindicated or use with extreme caution and significantly reduced doses. Monitor closely for toxicity.

Pharmacology

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Mechanism of Action

Bupivacaine, an amide-type local anesthetic, reversibly blocks the initiation and conduction of nerve impulses by decreasing the permeability of the neuronal membrane to sodium ions. This stabilizes the membrane and inhibits depolarization, leading to a reversible loss of sensation and motor activity. Epinephrine, an alpha- and beta-adrenergic agonist, causes local vasoconstriction, which prolongs the duration of action of bupivacaine, reduces systemic absorption, and decreases local bleeding.
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Pharmacokinetics

Absorption:

Bioavailability: Varies widely depending on the site of injection, dose, and presence of epinephrine. Systemic absorption is generally slower and lower with epinephrine.
Tmax: Varies significantly by site of injection (e.g., intercostal block: 10-20 min; epidural: 30-45 min; caudal: 40-60 min).
FoodEffect: Not applicable (parenteral administration).

Distribution:

Vd: Bupivacaine: 0.7-2.7 L/kg. Epinephrine: Rapidly distributed.
ProteinBinding: Bupivacaine: Approximately 95% (primarily to alpha-1-acid glycoprotein). Epinephrine: Approximately 50%.
CnssPenetration: Limited at therapeutic doses, but can cross the blood-brain barrier and placenta, leading to CNS and fetal effects at higher concentrations.

Elimination:

HalfLife: Bupivacaine: 2.7 hours (adults). Epinephrine: Very short (minutes).
Clearance: Bupivacaine: Approximately 0.58 L/min.
ExcretionRoute: Bupivacaine: Primarily renal (approximately 5-10% unchanged drug, metabolites). Epinephrine: Renal (metabolites).
Unchanged: Bupivacaine: Approximately 5-10% unchanged in urine.
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Pharmacodynamics

OnsetOfAction: 2-10 minutes (depending on concentration and site of injection).
PeakEffect: 30-60 minutes.
DurationOfAction: 3-7 hours (prolonged by epinephrine compared to plain bupivacaine).

Safety & Warnings

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BLACK BOX WARNING

WARNING: OBSTETRICAL PARACERVICAL BLOCK. Bupivacaine is not recommended for obstetrical paracervical block anesthesia. There have been reports of fetal bradycardia and death associated with the use of bupivacaine with epinephrine for paracervical block in obstetrics. WARNING: INTRAVENOUS REGIONAL ANESTHESIA (BIER BLOCK). Bupivacaine is not recommended for intravenous regional anesthesia (Bier block) as there have been reports of cardiac arrest and death in patients receiving bupivacaine for this procedure.
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Side Effects

Urgent Side Effects: Seek Medical Help Right Away

Although rare, this medication can cause severe and potentially life-threatening side effects. If you experience any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor or seek medical attention immediately:

Signs of an allergic reaction:
+ Rash
+ Hives
+ Itching
+ Red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever
+ Wheezing
+ Tightness in the chest or throat
+ Trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking
+ Unusual hoarseness
+ Swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat
Signs of acidosis (too much acid in the blood):
+ Confusion
+ Fast breathing
+ Fast heartbeat
+ Irregular heartbeat
+ Severe stomach pain, upset stomach, or vomiting
+ Excessive sleepiness
+ Shortness of breath
+ Feeling extremely tired or weak
Signs of methemoglobinemia (a rare but potentially life-threatening condition):
+ Blue or gray discoloration of the lips, nails, or skin
+ Irregular heartbeat
+ Seizures
+ Severe dizziness or fainting
+ Severe headache
+ Excessive sleepiness
+ Feeling extremely tired or weak
+ Shortness of breath
Other severe side effects:
+ Feeling extremely hot or cold
+ Dizziness or fainting
+ Lightheadedness, sleepiness, confusion, or blurred vision
+ Balance problems
+ Restlessness
+ Anxiety
+ Changes in speech
+ Numbness or tingling in the mouth
+ Metallic taste
+ Ringing in the ears
+ Shakiness
+ Twitching
+ Seizures
+ Breathing difficulties, slow breathing, or shallow breathing
+ Abnormal sensations (burning, numbness, or tingling)
+ Feeling nervous and excitable
+ Headache
+ Severe stomach upset or vomiting
+ Abnormal heartbeat (fast, slow, or irregular)
+ Chest pain or pressure
+ Fever or chills
+ Sneezing
+ Excessive sweating
+ Skin reactions (burning, color changes, pain, skin breakdown, or swelling) at the injection site
* Spinal-related side effects:
+ Urination difficulties
+ Loss of bladder or bowel control
+ Erectile dysfunction
+ Long-lasting burning, numbness, tingling, or paralysis in the lower half of the body
+ Back pain
+ Stiff neck
+ Sensitivity to bright lights

Other Possible Side Effects

Like all medications, this drug can cause side effects, although not everyone will experience them. If you have any side effects that bother you or do not go away, contact your doctor. This is not an exhaustive list of possible side effects. If you have questions or concerns, discuss them with your doctor.

Reporting Side Effects

You can report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088 or online at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch. Your doctor can also provide guidance on managing side effects and offer medical advice.
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Seek Immediate Medical Attention If You Experience:

  • Dizziness or lightheadedness
  • Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
  • Metallic taste in mouth
  • Numbness or tingling around the mouth
  • Blurred vision
  • Tremors or muscle twitching
  • Feeling anxious or restless
  • Unusual drowsiness or confusion
  • Slow or fast heartbeat
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Chest pain or discomfort
  • Seizures
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Before Using This Medicine

Before Taking This Medication: Important Information to Share with Your Doctor

It is essential to inform your doctor about the following:

Any allergies you have, including allergies to this medication, its components, or other substances, such as foods or drugs. Be sure to describe the allergic reaction and its symptoms.
Certain health conditions, including:
+ Bleeding disorders
+ Abnormal heart rhythms
+ Blood infections or infections at the site where the medication will be administered
+ Low blood pressure
If you are taking any of the following medications:
+ Antidepressants like isocarboxazid, phenelzine, or tranylcypromine
+ Medications for Parkinson's disease, such as selegiline or rasagiline
+ Tricyclic antidepressants, including amitriptyline, amoxapine, clomipramine, desipramine, doxepin, imipramine, nortriptyline, protriptyline, or trimipramine
+ Beta blockers like nadolol, propranolol, sotalol, or timolol
All your medications, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, natural products, and vitamins. This is not an exhaustive list, and it is crucial to discuss all your medications and health conditions with your doctor to ensure safe use.

Remember to consult your doctor and pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing the dose of any medication to guarantee safe use and minimize potential interactions.
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Precautions & Cautions

Important Warnings and Cautions

When taking this medication, it is essential to inform all your healthcare providers, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists, that you are using this drug.

To ensure your safety, avoid driving and engaging in activities that require alertness until the effects of the medication have worn off and you feel fully awake.

If you have a sulfite allergy, consult your doctor before taking this medication, as some products may contain sulfites.

There is a risk of developing a severe blood condition called methemoglobinemia, which may be increased in individuals with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency, heart problems, or lung problems. Additionally, the risk may be higher when taking certain other medications or in infants under 6 months of age. If you have a history of methemoglobinemia, inform your doctor.

If you are 65 years or older, use this medication with caution, as you may be more susceptible to side effects. Note that not all products are suitable for children, so consult your doctor before administering this medication to a child.

If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss the benefits and risks of this medication with your doctor to ensure the best outcome for you and your baby.

Mouth and Throat Precautions

Do not eat or drink while your mouth is numb, as you may accidentally bite your tongue.

Spinal Precautions

This medication may cause temporary loss of sensation and motor function in the lower half of your body. To avoid injury, do not attempt to get out of bed or engage in any activities until feeling and motor function have returned to normal.
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Overdose Information

Overdose Symptoms:

  • Severe CNS toxicity (seizures, unconsciousness, respiratory arrest)
  • Severe cardiovascular toxicity (bradycardia, hypotension, arrhythmias, cardiac arrest)
  • Methemoglobinemia (rare, but possible with bupivacaine)

What to Do:

Immediate medical attention required. Call 911 or emergency services. Management includes airway management, oxygenation, ventilatory support, IV lipid emulsion therapy (for bupivacaine toxicity), and symptomatic treatment for seizures, hypotension, and arrhythmias. Call 1-800-222-1222 (Poison Control) for additional guidance.

Drug Interactions

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Contraindicated Interactions

  • Intravenous regional anesthesia (Bier block) - due to risk of cardiac arrest if tourniquet fails.
  • Obstetrical paracervical block - due to risk of fetal bradycardia and death.
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Major Interactions

  • Other local anesthetics (additive systemic toxicity)
  • Antiarrhythmics (e.g., lidocaine, mexiletine, amiodarone - increased risk of cardiac depression/arrhythmias)
  • Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs) - (with epinephrine: hypertensive crisis)
  • Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs) - (with epinephrine: severe prolonged hypertension, arrhythmias)
  • Ergot-type oxytocic drugs (e.g., methylergonovine) - (with epinephrine: severe persistent hypertension, stroke)
  • Non-selective Beta-blockers (e.g., propranolol) - (with epinephrine: hypertension followed by bradycardia)
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Moderate Interactions

  • Alpha-adrenergic blockers (e.g., phentolamine) - (may reduce vasoconstrictive effect of epinephrine)
  • Phenothiazines (e.g., chlorpromazine) - (may reverse epinephrine's pressor effect)
  • Inhalation anesthetics (e.g., halothane, isoflurane) - (may sensitize myocardium to epinephrine, increasing arrhythmia risk)
  • Digitalis glycosides (e.g., digoxin) - (increased risk of arrhythmias with epinephrine)
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Minor Interactions

  • Not available

Monitoring

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Baseline Monitoring

Allergy history

Rationale: To identify hypersensitivity reactions to amide-type local anesthetics or other components.

Timing: Prior to administration

Vital signs (HR, BP, RR)

Rationale: To establish baseline and identify pre-existing cardiovascular instability.

Timing: Prior to administration

Cardiac status (ECG if indicated)

Rationale: To assess for pre-existing arrhythmias or conduction abnormalities, especially in patients with cardiovascular disease.

Timing: Prior to administration, particularly for large blocks or high-risk patients

Neurological status

Rationale: To establish baseline for assessing CNS toxicity.

Timing: Prior to administration

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Routine Monitoring

Vital signs (HR, BP, RR)

Frequency: Every 5-15 minutes during and immediately after injection, then as clinically indicated.

Target: Within patient's normal range; avoid significant hypotension or bradycardia.

Action Threshold: Significant deviations (e.g., >20% change from baseline, symptomatic hypotension, bradycardia <50 bpm, tachycardia >120 bpm) require intervention.

Neurological status (e.g., level of consciousness, presence of dizziness, tinnitus, tremors)

Frequency: Continuously during and for at least 30 minutes after injection.

Target: Alert and oriented, no signs of CNS excitation or depression.

Action Threshold: Onset of dizziness, tinnitus, circumoral numbness, metallic taste, tremors, muscle twitching, or seizures requires immediate intervention.

Oxygen saturation (SpO2)

Frequency: Continuously during and immediately after injection.

Target: >94%

Action Threshold: <90% requires oxygen administration and assessment for respiratory depression.

Site of injection

Frequency: Visually inspect during and after injection.

Target: No signs of hematoma, swelling, or infection.

Action Threshold: Signs of local complications (e.g., hematoma, nerve injury symptoms) require assessment.

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Symptom Monitoring

  • Lightheadedness
  • Dizziness
  • Tinnitus
  • Metallic taste
  • Numbness of tongue or circumoral region
  • Blurred vision
  • Tremors
  • Muscle twitching
  • Shivering
  • Confusion
  • Drowsiness
  • Seizures
  • Unconsciousness
  • Bradycardia
  • Hypotension
  • Hypertension (initial, due to epinephrine)
  • Palpitations
  • Arrhythmias
  • Cardiac arrest
  • Respiratory depression
  • Apnea

Special Patient Groups

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Pregnancy

Category C. Use only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Bupivacaine crosses the placenta. Epinephrine can affect uterine blood flow and contractility. Not recommended for obstetrical paracervical block due to risk of fetal bradycardia and death.

Trimester-Specific Risks:

First Trimester: Potential for teratogenicity not established, but generally avoided unless essential.
Second Trimester: Use with caution; monitor fetal heart rate if used for regional anesthesia.
Third Trimester: Use with caution; monitor fetal heart rate. Not for paracervical block. Can cause fetal bradycardia and acidosis.
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Lactation

Bupivacaine is excreted in breast milk in small amounts. Epinephrine is rapidly metabolized and unlikely to be present in significant amounts. Generally considered compatible with breastfeeding, but monitor infant for drowsiness or feeding difficulties.

Infant Risk: Low risk. L2 (Bupivacaine), L3 (Epinephrine - due to rapid metabolism, unlikely to cause issues).
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Pediatric Use

Use with extreme caution. Dosing must be precisely calculated based on weight (mg/kg) and not exceed recommended maximums. Children may be more susceptible to systemic toxicity. Monitor closely for signs of CNS and cardiovascular toxicity.

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Geriatric Use

Use with caution. Elderly patients may be more susceptible to systemic toxicity due to decreased hepatic and renal function, reduced plasma protein binding, and altered body composition. Consider reduced doses and monitor closely for adverse effects.

Clinical Information

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Clinical Pearls

  • Always aspirate prior to injection to avoid inadvertent intravascular administration, which can lead to severe systemic toxicity.
  • The presence of epinephrine causes vasoconstriction, which prolongs the duration of action and reduces systemic absorption of bupivacaine, but also carries risks related to epinephrine (e.g., hypertension, tachycardia, arrhythmias, tissue ischemia in end-artery areas).
  • Do not use solutions containing epinephrine in areas with end-artery blood supply (e.g., fingers, toes, nose, ears, penis) due to risk of ischemia and necrosis.
  • Methylparaben-free (MPF) formulations are essential for epidural or intrathecal administration to prevent neurotoxicity associated with methylparaben.
  • Systemic toxicity (CNS and cardiovascular) can occur even with appropriate dosing, especially if inadvertently injected intravascularly. Be prepared to manage toxicity with lipid emulsion therapy.
  • The onset and duration of action are highly dependent on the concentration, volume, site of injection, and individual patient factors.
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Alternative Therapies

  • Plain Bupivacaine (without epinephrine)
  • Lidocaine (plain)
  • Ropivacaine (plain or with epinephrine)
  • Levobupivacaine (plain or with epinephrine)
  • General anesthesia
  • Other regional anesthetic techniques (e.g., spinal anesthesia, peripheral nerve blocks with other agents)
  • Non-pharmacological pain management techniques
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Cost & Coverage

Average Cost: Varies widely by concentration, volume, and supplier. Typically $5 - $50 per 30mL vial. per 30mL vial
Generic Available: Yes
Insurance Coverage: Tier 1 or Tier 2 (often covered under medical benefit for procedures)
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General Drug Facts

If your symptoms or health problems do not improve or worsen over time, it is essential to contact your doctor for further evaluation and guidance.

To ensure safe use, do not share your medication with others, and never take someone else's medication. Store all medications in a secure location, out of reach of children and pets, to prevent accidental ingestion.

Proper disposal of unused or expired medications is crucial. Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them down the drain unless specifically instructed to do so. If you are unsure about the correct disposal method, consult your pharmacist for guidance. Many communities have drug take-back programs, which your pharmacist can help you locate.

Some medications may come with an additional patient information leaflet. Check with your pharmacist to see if this applies to your prescription. If you have any questions or concerns about your medication, do not hesitate to discuss them with your doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider.

In the event of a suspected overdose, immediately contact your local poison control center or seek emergency medical attention. Be prepared to provide information about the medication taken, the amount, and the time it was taken, as this will aid in prompt and effective treatment.