Dantrolene (Injection)

Introduction:

Dantrolene (DAN-troe-leen)

Treats or prevents malignant hyperthermia (a muscle disorder that can cause muscle breakdown and extreme fever, usually caused by administration of some anesthetics). May be used before, during, or after surgery.

Brand Name(s):

Dantrium, Dantrium Intravenous

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Injectable

• A nurse or other trained health professional will give you this medicine.
• Your doctor may prescribe you dantrolene (Dantrium®) capsules after you are given the dantrolene shot. Your doctor will tell you how much of that medicine to take and for how long.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are also using a blood pressure medicine of the calcium channel blocker type, such as verapamil (Calan®, Isoptin®, Verelan®), Lotrel®, or Norvasc®. Make sure your doctor knows if you are also using warfarin (Coumadin®), clofibrate (Atromid-S®), or tolbutamide (Orinase®).
• Make sure your doctor knows if you are also using a tranquilizer medicine, such as lorazepam (Ativan®), diazepam (Valium®), or temazepam (Restoril®).

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Make sure your doctor knows if you pregnant or breast feeding.
• This medicine may make you dizzy. Avoid driving, using machines, or doing anything else that could be dangerous if you are not alert for the 48 hours (2 days) following administration of this medicine.
• This medicine may cause you to have trouble swallowing. You should be careful eating on the day you receive this medicine so you do not choke.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing.
• Coma.

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Circulatory problems.
• Cough, wheezing, trouble breathing, or shortness of breath.
• Crystals in your urine.
• Light-headedness, or feeling weak or sleepy.
• Red or itchy skin, or rash.
• Vomiting or diarrhea.
• Weakness in your hands and leg muscles.

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor: