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What should I discuss with my health care provider before receiving nitroprusside (Nitropress)?

You should not receive this medication if you are allergic to nitroprusside, or if you have:

• hereditary vision loss (Leber's disease);
• vision problems caused by smoking; or
• a history of blood clot in your brain.

If possible before you receive nitroprusside, tell your doctor if you have:

• high blood pressure (hypertension);
• kidney disease;
• liver disease;
• anemia (a lack of red blood cells);
• epilepsy or other seizure disorder; or
• a history of head injury or brain tumor.

FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether nitroprusside will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant.

It is not known whether nitroprusside passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

In an emergency situation, it may not be possible before you are treated with nitroprusside to tell your caregivers if you are pregnant or breast-feeding. Make sure any doctor caring for your pregnancy or your baby knows you have received this medication.

How is nitroprusside given (Nitropress)?

Nitroprusside is injected into a vein through an infusion pump. You will receive this injection in a clinic or hospital setting.

Nitroprusside is usually given for as long as needed until your body responds to the medication.

Your breathing, blood pressure, oxygen levels, and other vital signs will be watched closely while you are receiving nitroprusside. Your blood and urine may also need to be tested during treatment.

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