Bolus doses (including line flushes) MUST NOT be given and may cause profound hypotension, shock and death

Half-life is 3 minutes.

Most potent vasodilator known. Use is restricted – ICU availability only.

Dedicated line is required to maintain alkaline pH of solution for drug stability

Diluent solution is highly alkaline (pH 12, this is essential for drug stability) and may cause tissue injury if extravasation occurs, central venous line recommended

Causes systemic vasodilation; Latent hypovolaemia must be corrected before administering the medication. Causes profound hypotension in cases where volume loading is incomplete.

Concurrent use of vasoconstricting inotropic support recommended.

Monitor cardiovascular status including urine output continuously throughout treatment.

Inhibits platelet aggregation and may affect clotting or cause bleeding. Consider head ultrasound prior to treatment and monitor for bleeding.