PHENYLEPHRINE HYDROCHLORIDE

Metaoxedrine

Reviewed by

September 1998

Management of Phenylephrine Administration

Description

Clear colourless solution 2.5% - no preservative - in small plastic containers. Do not use brown solutions.

Prescription

Charted on stat page of prescription chart.

Administration

Eye Drops

No further dilution necessary.
Avoid touching the conjunctiva with the tip of the dispenser.
Each baby must have own dispenser.
Systemic absorption can be minimised by depressing lacrimal sac for 1-2 minutes after instillation of drug.
Check pupil in 15 minutes.

Nursing Considerations

Observe for bradycardia during instillation.
Monitor for adverse effects.
Monitor oxygenation where appropriate.
Do not exceed recommended dosage because systemic effects can occur.
Avoid bright light (photophobia due to cycloplegic action).

Storage

Store in refrigerator 2-5°C.
Protect from light, heat, air.
Expires as per date on box.

References

1	Greaney M, Saunders R (eds) NE Compendium: Detailed prescribing information. Auckland, Adis Press 1990; p1048.
2	Mirmanesh SJ, Abbasi S, Bhutani VK. Alpha-adrenergic bronchoprovocation in neonates with bronchopulmonary dysplasia. J Pediatr 1992; 121:622-5.
3	Nursing 97 Drug Handbook, Springhouse 1997 p1062-63.
4	Children's Hospital and Regional Medical Center, Seattle, Washington. Formulary of Medications 1998-1999, Lexicomp p181-1.
5	Knight DB. National Women's Hospital Retinopathy of Prematurity Doctors Protocol Book, January 1998.
6	Screening Examination of Premature Infant for Retinopathy of Prematurity. A joint statement of the American Academy of Pediatrics. The American Association of Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus and American Academy of Ophthalmology Pediatrics 1997; 100:273.
7	Retinopathy of prematurity: Guidelines for screening and treatment. The report of joint working party of the Royal College of Ophthalmologists and British Association of Perinatal Medicine, Early Human Development 1996; 46:239-58.