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Papaverine: Pediatric drug information

Papaverine: Pediatric drug information
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For additional information see "Papaverine: Drug information" and "Papaverine: Patient drug information"

For abbreviations, symbols, and age group definitions show table
Therapeutic Category
  • Antimigraine Agent;
  • Vasodilator
Dosing: Neonatal
Peripheral arterial catheter patency

Peripheral arterial catheter patency: Limited data available: Note: Due to the risk of intraventricular hemorrhage, the use of papaverine in preterm neonates <3 weeks of age is not recommended (Ref).

Neonates: Add 30 mg preservative-free papaverine to an admixture of 250 mL NS or 1/2NS with heparin 1 unit/mL; infuse via peripheral arterial catheter at ≤1 mL/hour (see Heparin monograph). A double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of 141 neonates (median GA: 27 weeks; median birth weight: 910 to 952 g) demonstrated prolonged functionality of peripherally inserted arterial catheters (Ref).

Dosing: Pediatric
Peripheral arterial catheter patency

Peripheral arterial catheter patency: Limited data available: Infants, Children, and Adolescents: Add 30 mg papaverine to an admixture of 250 mL NS or 1/2NS with heparin 1 unit/mL (Ref); infuse via peripheral arterial catheter.

Dosing: Kidney Impairment: Pediatric

There are no dosage adjustments provided in the manufacturer's labeling.

Dosing: Liver Impairment: Pediatric

There are no dosage adjustments provided in the manufacturer's labeling.

Dosing: Adult

(For additional information see "Papaverine: Drug information")

Note: Labeled uses have fallen out of favor; safer and more effective alternatives are available. The manufacturer's labeling recommends the following dosing:

Vascular spasm

Vascular spasm: IM, IV: 30 to 120 mg; may repeat dose every 3 hours as indicated. For the treatment of cardiac extrasystole, may administer 2 doses 10 minutes apart.

Vasospasm, harvesting mammary arteries for coronary artery bypass graft surgery

Vasospasm, harvesting mammary arteries for coronary artery bypass graft surgery (off-label use): Note: Administration techniques and dosing may vary (Ref). Refer to institutional protocols.

Peri-arterial: 10 mg (1 mg/mL in NS) injected throughout and parallel to the vessel after it has been harvested; avoid vascular wall infiltration (Ref).

Dosing: Kidney Impairment: Adult

There are no dosage adjustments provided in the manufacturer's labeling.

Dosing: Liver Impairment: Adult

There are no dosage adjustments provided in the manufacturer's labeling.

Adverse Reactions

The following adverse drug reactions are derived from product labeling unless otherwise specified.

Postmarketing:

Cardiovascular: Facial flushing, increased blood pressure, increased heart rate

Dermatologic: Diaphoresis, skin rash

Gastrointestinal: Abdominal distress, anorexia, constipation, diarrhea, nausea

Hepatic: Hepatotoxicity (including abnormal hepatic function tests, hepatitis, jaundice) (Pathy 1980)

Nervous system: Drug dependence, headache, malaise, sedated state, vertigo

Respiratory: Increased depth of respiration

Contraindications

Complete AV block

Warnings/Precautions

Concerns related to adverse effects:

• Arrhythmias: May (in large doses or with rapid infusion) depress AV and intraventricular cardiac conduction leading to serious arrhythmias (eg, premature beats, paroxysmal tachycardia).

• Hepatitis: May cause hepatic hypersensitivity; discontinue use if GI symptoms, jaundice, eosinophilia, or abnormal LFTs occur.

Disease-related concerns:

• Glaucoma: Use with caution in patients with glaucoma.

Other warnings/precautions:

• Appropriate use: Not indicated for treatment of impotence by intracorporeal injection; persistent priapism may occur.

Warnings: Additional Pediatric Considerations

Administer IV slowly and with caution since arrhythmias and apnea may occur with rapid IV use. Avoid use in neonates due to the increased risk of drug-induced cerebral vasodilation and possibility of an intracranial bleed.

Dosage Forms: US

Excipient information presented when available (limited, particularly for generics); consult specific product labeling.

Solution, Injection, as hydrochloride:

Generic: 30 mg/mL (2 mL)

Generic Equivalent Available: US

Yes

Pricing: US

Solution (Papaverine HCl Injection)

30 mg/mL (per mL): $13.68 - $24.85

Disclaimer: A representative AWP (Average Wholesale Price) price or price range is provided as reference price only. A range is provided when more than one manufacturer's AWP price is available and uses the low and high price reported by the manufacturers to determine the range. The pricing data should be used for benchmarking purposes only, and as such should not be used alone to set or adjudicate any prices for reimbursement or purchasing functions or considered to be an exact price for a single product and/or manufacturer. Medi-Span expressly disclaims all warranties of any kind or nature, whether express or implied, and assumes no liability with respect to accuracy of price or price range data published in its solutions. In no event shall Medi-Span be liable for special, indirect, incidental, or consequential damages arising from use of price or price range data. Pricing data is updated monthly.

Dosage Forms: Canada

Excipient information presented when available (limited, particularly for generics); consult specific product labeling.

Solution, Injection:

Generic: 65 mg/2 mL (2 mL)

Administration: Pediatric

Parenteral: IV infusion: Neonates, Infants, Children, and Adolescents: Administer through designated peripheral arterial catheter at prescribed rate, usually ≤1 mL/hour (Ref).

Administration: Adult

IV: Administer by slow push (over 1 to 2 minutes). The IV route is recommended when an immediate effect is desired; rapid IV administration may result in arrhythmias and fatal apnea.

May be administered peri-arterial to prevent vasospasm during harvesting mammary arteries for coronary artery bypass graft surgery (off-label use) after the artery has been dissected (Ref). Note: Administration techniques may vary (Ref).

Storage/Stability

Store at 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F); excursions permitted to 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F). Protect from light.

Use

Various vascular spasms associated with smooth muscle spasms as in myocardial infarction, angina, peripheral and pulmonary embolism, peripheral vascular disease; cerebral angiospastic states; visceral spasms (ureteral, biliary, and GI colic) (FDA approved in adults); has also been used for peripheral arterial catheter patency. Note: Labeled uses have fallen out of favor; safer and more effective alternatives are available.

Medication Safety Issues
Sound-alike/look-alike issues:

Papaverine may be confused with pamidronate

Metabolism/Transport Effects

None known.

Drug Interactions

Note: Interacting drugs may not be individually listed below if they are part of a group interaction (eg, individual drugs within “CYP3A4 Inducers [Strong]” are NOT listed). For a complete list of drug interactions by individual drug name and detailed management recommendations, use the drug interactions program by clicking on the “Launch drug interactions program” link above.

Note: Interacting drugs may not be individually listed below if they are part of a group interaction (eg, individual drugs within “CYP3A4 Inducers [Strong]” are NOT listed). For a complete list of drug interactions by individual drug name and detailed management recommendations, use the drug interactions program

Amiodarone: QT-prolonging Miscellaneous Agents (Highest Risk) may increase QTc-prolonging effects of Amiodarone. Management: Consider alternatives to this drug combination. If combined, monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification

Amisulpride (Oral): QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk) may increase QTc-prolonging effects of Amisulpride (Oral). Management: Consider alternatives to this drug combination. If combined, monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even greater risk. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification

Arsenic Trioxide: QT-prolonging Miscellaneous Agents (Highest Risk) may increase QTc-prolonging effects of Arsenic Trioxide. Management: Consider alternatives to this drug combination. If combined, monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification

Azithromycin (Systemic): QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk) may increase QTc-prolonging effects of Azithromycin (Systemic). Management: Consider alternatives to this combination. Patients with other risk factors (eg, older age, female sex, bradycardia, hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, heart disease, and higher drug concentrations) are likely at greater risk for these toxicities. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification

Bedaquiline: QT-prolonging Miscellaneous Agents (Highest Risk) may increase QTc-prolonging effects of Bedaquiline. Management: Consider alternatives to this drug combination. If combined, monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification

Carbetocin: May increase QTc-prolonging effects of QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk). Management: Consider alternatives to this drug combination. If combined, monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification

Chloroquine: QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk) may increase QTc-prolonging effects of Chloroquine. Management: Consider alternatives to this combination. If combined, monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification

ChlorproMAZINE: QT-prolonging Miscellaneous Agents (Highest Risk) may increase QTc-prolonging effects of ChlorproMAZINE. Management: Consider alternatives to this drug combination. If combined, monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification

Cisapride: QT-prolonging Miscellaneous Agents (Highest Risk) may increase QTc-prolonging effects of Cisapride. Management: Consider alternatives to this drug combination. If combined, monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification

Citalopram: QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk) may increase QTc-prolonging effects of Citalopram. Risk X: Avoid

Clarithromycin: QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk) may increase QTc-prolonging effects of Clarithromycin. Risk X: Avoid

Clofazimine: QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk) may increase QTc-prolonging effects of Clofazimine. Management: Consider alternatives to this combination. If combined, monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification

ClomiPRAMINE: May increase QTc-prolonging effects of QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk). Management: Consider alternatives to this drug combination. If combined, monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification

CloZAPine: QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk) may increase QTc-prolonging effects of CloZAPine. Management: Consider alternatives to this combination. Patients with other risk factors (eg, older age, female sex, bradycardia, hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, heart disease, and higher drug concentrations) are likely at greater risk for these toxicities. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification

Dabrafenib: May increase QTc-prolonging effects of QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk). Management: Consider alternatives to this drug combination. If combined, monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification

Dasatinib: QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk) may increase QTc-prolonging effects of Dasatinib. Management: Consider alternatives to this combination. Patients with other risk factors (eg, older age, female sex, bradycardia, hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, heart disease, and higher drug concentrations) are likely at greater risk for these toxicities. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification

Delamanid: QT-prolonging Miscellaneous Agents (Highest Risk) may increase QTc-prolonging effects of Delamanid. Management: Consider alternatives to this drug combination. If combined, monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification

Domperidone: QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk) may increase QTc-prolonging effects of Domperidone. Risk X: Avoid

Doxepin-Containing Products: QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk) may increase QTc-prolonging effects of Doxepin-Containing Products. Management: Consider alternatives to this combination. Patients with other risk factors (eg, older age, female sex, bradycardia, hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, heart disease, and higher drug concentrations) are likely at greater risk for these toxicities. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification

Dronedarone: QT-prolonging Miscellaneous Agents (Highest Risk) may increase QTc-prolonging effects of Dronedarone. Management: Consider alternatives to this drug combination. If combined, monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification

DroPERidol: QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk) may increase QTc-prolonging effects of DroPERidol. Management: Consider alternatives to this combination. Patients with other risk factors (eg, older age, female sex, bradycardia, hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, heart disease, and higher drug concentrations) are likely at greater risk for these toxicities. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification

Encorafenib: May increase QTc-prolonging effects of QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk). Management: Consider alternatives to this drug combination. If combined, monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification

Entrectinib: May increase QTc-prolonging effects of QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk). Risk X: Avoid

Escitalopram: QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk) may increase QTc-prolonging effects of Escitalopram. Management: Consider alternatives to this combination. Patients with other risk factors (eg, older age, female sex, bradycardia, hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, heart disease, and higher drug concentrations) are likely at greater risk for these toxicities. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification

Etelcalcetide: May increase QTc-prolonging effects of QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk). Management: Consider alternatives to this drug combination. If combined, monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification

Fexinidazole: May increase QTc-prolonging effects of QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk). Risk X: Avoid

Fingolimod: May increase QTc-prolonging effects of QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk). Management: Monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias (including TdP) with a continuous overnight ECG when fingolimod is combined with QT prolonging drugs. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk C: Monitor

Flecainide: QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk) may increase QTc-prolonging effects of Flecainide. Management: Consider alternatives to this combination. Patients with other risk factors (eg, older age, female sex, bradycardia, hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, heart disease, and higher drug concentrations) are likely at greater risk for these toxicities. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification

Fluconazole: May increase QTc-prolonging effects of QT-prolonging Miscellaneous Agents (Highest Risk). QT-prolonging Miscellaneous Agents (Highest Risk) may increase QTc-prolonging effects of Fluconazole. Management: Consider alternatives to this drug combination. If combined, monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification

Fluorouracil Products: QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk) may increase QTc-prolonging effects of Fluorouracil Products. Management: Consider alternatives to this drug combination. If combined, monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification

Flupentixol: QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk) may increase QTc-prolonging effects of Flupentixol. Risk X: Avoid

Gadobenate Dimeglumine: QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk) may increase QTc-prolonging effects of Gadobenate Dimeglumine. Management: Consider alternatives to this combination. If combined, monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification

Gemifloxacin: May increase QTc-prolonging effects of QT-prolonging Miscellaneous Agents (Highest Risk). Management: Consider alternatives to this drug combination. If combined, monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification

Gilteritinib: May increase QTc-prolonging effects of QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk). Management: Consider alternatives to this combination. If use is necessary, monitor for QTc interval prolongation and arrhythmias. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification

Halofantrine: QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk) may increase QTc-prolonging effects of Halofantrine. Management: Consider alternatives to this combination. If combined, monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification

Haloperidol: QT-prolonging Miscellaneous Agents (Highest Risk) may increase QTc-prolonging effects of Haloperidol. Management: Consider alternatives to this drug combination. If combined, monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification

HydrOXYzine: May increase QTc-prolonging effects of QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk). Risk C: Monitor

Imipramine: May increase QTc-prolonging effects of QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk). Management: Consider alternatives to this drug combination. If combined, monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification

Inotuzumab Ozogamicin: QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk) may increase QTc-prolonging effects of Inotuzumab Ozogamicin. Management: Consider alternatives to this combination. If combined, monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification

Levodopa-Foslevodopa: Papaverine may decrease therapeutic effects of Levodopa-Foslevodopa. Papaverine may increase hypotensive effects of Levodopa-Foslevodopa. Risk C: Monitor

Levofloxacin-Containing Products (Systemic): May increase QTc-prolonging effects of QT-prolonging Miscellaneous Agents (Highest Risk). Management: Consider alternatives to this combination. If combined, monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification

Levoketoconazole: QT-prolonging Miscellaneous Agents (Highest Risk) may increase QTc-prolonging effects of Levoketoconazole. Risk X: Avoid

Lofexidine: QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk) may increase QTc-prolonging effects of Lofexidine. Management: Consider alternatives to this combination. If combined, monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification

Meglumine Antimoniate: May increase QTc-prolonging effects of QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk). Management: Consider alternatives to this drug combination. If combined, monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification

Methadone: May increase QTc-prolonging effects of QT-prolonging Miscellaneous Agents (Highest Risk). Management: Consider alternatives to this drug combination. If combined, monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification

Midostaurin: QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk) may increase QTc-prolonging effects of Midostaurin. Management: Consider alternatives to this combination. If combined, monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification

Moxifloxacin (Systemic): QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk) may increase QTc-prolonging effects of Moxifloxacin (Systemic). Risk X: Avoid

Nilotinib: QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk) may increase QTc-prolonging effects of Nilotinib. Risk X: Avoid

OLANZapine: QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk) may increase QTc-prolonging effects of OLANZapine. Management: Consider alternatives to this combination. Patients with other risk factors (eg, older age, female sex, bradycardia, hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, heart disease, and higher drug concentrations) are likely at greater risk for these toxicities. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification

Ondansetron: QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk) may increase QTc-prolonging effects of Ondansetron. Management: Consider alternatives to this combination. If combined, monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification

Osimertinib: QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk) may increase QTc-prolonging effects of Osimertinib. Management: Consider alternatives to this combination. Patients with other risk factors (eg, older age, female sex, bradycardia, hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, heart disease, and higher drug concentrations) are likely at greater risk for these toxicities. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification

Oxytocin: May increase QTc-prolonging effects of QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk). Management: Consider alternatives to this drug combination. If combined, monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification

Pacritinib: QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk) may increase QTc-prolonging effects of Pacritinib. Management: Monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias when these agents are combined. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk C: Monitor

PAZOPanib: QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk) may increase QTc-prolonging effects of PAZOPanib. Risk X: Avoid

Pentamidine (Systemic): QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk) may increase QTc-prolonging effects of Pentamidine (Systemic). Management: Consider alternatives to this combination. If combined, monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification

Pilsicainide: QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk) may increase QTc-prolonging effects of Pilsicainide. Management: Consider alternatives to this combination. If combined, monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification

Pimozide: QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk) may increase QTc-prolonging effects of Pimozide. Management: Consider alternatives to this combination. Patients with other risk factors (eg, older age, female sex, bradycardia, hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, heart disease, and higher drug concentrations) are likely at greater risk for these toxicities. Risk X: Avoid

Piperaquine: QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk) may increase QTc-prolonging effects of Piperaquine. Risk X: Avoid

Probucol: QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk) may increase QTc-prolonging effects of Probucol. Risk X: Avoid

Propafenone: May increase QTc-prolonging effects of QT-prolonging Miscellaneous Agents (Highest Risk). Management: Consider alternatives to this combination. If combined, monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification

Propofol: May increase QTc-prolonging effects of QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk). Management: Consider alternatives to this drug combination. If combined, monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification

QT-prolonging Agents (Indeterminate Risk - Avoid): May increase QTc-prolonging effects of QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk). Management: Monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias when these agents are combined. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk C: Monitor

QT-prolonging Agents (Indeterminate Risk - Caution): May increase QTc-prolonging effects of QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk). Management: Monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias when these agents are combined. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk C: Monitor

QT-prolonging Class IA Antiarrhythmics (Highest Risk): May increase QTc-prolonging effects of QT-prolonging Miscellaneous Agents (Highest Risk). Management: Consider alternatives to this drug combination. If combined, monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification

QT-prolonging Class III Antiarrhythmics (Highest Risk): May increase QTc-prolonging effects of QT-prolonging Miscellaneous Agents (Highest Risk). Management: Consider alternatives to this drug combination. If combined, monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification

QT-Prolonging Inhalational Anesthetics (Moderate Risk): May increase QTc-prolonging effects of QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk). Management: Consider alternatives to this drug combination. If combined, monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification

QT-prolonging Kinase Inhibitors (Highest Risk): May increase QTc-prolonging effects of QT-prolonging Miscellaneous Agents (Highest Risk). Management: Consider alternatives to this drug combination. If combined, monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification

QT-prolonging Miscellaneous Agents (Highest Risk): May increase QTc-prolonging effects of Papaverine. Management: Consider alternatives to this drug combination. If combined, monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification

QT-prolonging Moderate CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Moderate Risk): May increase QTc-prolonging effects of QT-prolonging Miscellaneous Agents (Highest Risk). Management: Consider alternatives to this drug combination. If combined, monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification

QT-prolonging Strong CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Highest Risk): QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk) may increase QTc-prolonging effects of QT-prolonging Strong CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Highest Risk). Management: Consider alternatives to this combination. If combined, monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification

QT-prolonging Strong CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Moderate Risk): May increase QTc-prolonging effects of QT-prolonging Miscellaneous Agents (Highest Risk). QT-prolonging Strong CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Moderate Risk) may increase serum concentration of QT-prolonging Miscellaneous Agents (Highest Risk). Risk X: Avoid

QUEtiapine: QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk) may increase QTc-prolonging effects of QUEtiapine. Risk X: Avoid

QuiNINE: QT-prolonging Miscellaneous Agents (Highest Risk) may increase QTc-prolonging effects of QuiNINE. Management: Consider alternatives to this drug combination. If combined, monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification

Quizartinib: May increase QTc-prolonging effects of QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk). Management: Consider alternatives to this combination. Patients with other risk factors (eg, older age, female sex, bradycardia, hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, heart disease, and higher drug concentrations) are likely at greater risk for these toxicities. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification

Ribociclib: QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk) may increase QTc-prolonging effects of Ribociclib. Risk X: Avoid

RisperiDONE: QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk) may increase QTc-prolonging effects of RisperiDONE. QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk) may increase CNS depressant effects of RisperiDONE. Management: Consider alternatives to this drug combination. If combined, monitor for QTc interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias. Patients with additional risk factors for QTc prolongation may be at even higher risk. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification

Sertindole: May increase QTc-prolonging effects of QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk). Risk X: Avoid

Sparfloxacin: QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk) may increase QTc-prolonging effects of Sparfloxacin. Risk X: Avoid

SUNItinib: QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk) may increase QTc-prolonging effects of SUNItinib. Management: Consider alternatives to this combination. Patients with other risk factors (eg, older age, female sex, bradycardia, hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, heart disease, and higher drug concentrations) are likely at greater risk for these toxicities. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification

Terbutaline: May increase QTc-prolonging effects of QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk). Management: Consider alternatives to this combination. Patients with other risk factors (eg, older age, female sex, bradycardia, hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, heart disease, and higher drug concentrations) are likely at greater risk for these toxicities. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification

Thioridazine: QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk) may increase QTc-prolonging effects of Thioridazine. Risk X: Avoid

Toremifene: QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk) may increase QTc-prolonging effects of Toremifene. Management: Consider alternatives to this combination. Patients with other risk factors (eg, older age, female sex, bradycardia, hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, heart disease, and higher drug concentrations) are likely at greater risk for these toxicities. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification

Vemurafenib: QT-prolonging Agents (Highest Risk) may increase QTc-prolonging effects of Vemurafenib. Management: Consider alternatives to this combination. Patients with other risk factors (eg, older age, female sex, bradycardia, hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, heart disease, and higher drug concentrations) are likely at greater risk for these toxicities. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification

Dietary Considerations

May be taken with food.

Pregnancy Considerations

Teratogenic effects have not been observed in animal reproduction studies.

Monitoring Parameters

Liver enzymes; intraocular pressure in glaucoma patients.

Mechanism of Action

Smooth muscle spasmolytic producing a generalized smooth muscle relaxation including: vasodilatation, gastrointestinal sphincter relaxation, bronchiolar muscle relaxation, and potentially a depressed myocardium (with large doses); muscle relaxation may occur due to inhibition or cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterase, increasing cyclic AMP; muscle relaxation is unrelated to nerve innervation; papaverine increases cerebral blood flow in normal subjects; oxygen uptake is unaltered

Pharmacokinetics (Adult Data Unless Noted)

Onset of action: Oral: Rapid

Protein binding: ~90%

Metabolism: Rapidly hepatic

Bioavailability: Oral: ~54%

Half-life elimination: 30 to 120 minutes

Excretion: Primarily urine (as metabolites)

Brand Names: International
International Brand Names by Country
For country code abbreviations (show table)

  • (EG) Egypt: Vasorin
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  6. Ilan Y and Gemer O, “Papaverine-Induced Coma,” Eur J Clin Pharmacol, 1988, 33(6):651. [PubMed 3366170]
  7. Jahr JS, Kang B, Paxtor CG, et al, “Hemodynamic Responses to Papaverine: Do Nitric Oxide, Cyclic GMP, or Calcium Mediate the Vasodilitation?” Am J Therapeut, 1995, 2(4):258-64. [PubMed 11850659]
  8. Kliegman RM, Behrman RE, Jenson HB, et al, eds. Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics. 18th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Saunders Elsevier; 2007.
  9. Masroor M, Zhou K, Chen C, Fu X, Zhao Y. All we need to know about internal thoracic artery harvesting and preparation for myocardial revascularization: a systematic review. J Cardiothorac Surg. 2021;16(1):354. doi:10.1186/s13019-021-01733-2 [PubMed 34961523]
  10. Papaverine [prescribing information]. Shirley, NY: American Regent, Inc; January 2009.
  11. Papaverine [prescribing information]. Largo, FL: BPI Labs LLC; May 2021.
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  13. Yavuz S, Celkan A, Goncu T, et al, “Effect of Papaverine Applications on Blood Flow of the Internal Mammary Artery,” Ann Thorac Cardiovasc Surg, 2001, 7(2):84-8. [PubMed 11398777]
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