Guide To Medications That Treat Low Blood Pressure (Hypotension)

Phenylephrine

In cases where patients are experiencing low blood pressure during surgery, doctors may administer an injection of phenylephrine. The medicine is given to patients through an intravenous line. It increases the patient's blood pressure to a safe level. Patients are closely monitored while receiving this medication, and blood tests may be performed. Phenylephrine could cause a depression underneath the skin at the injection site. This is called necrosis. Unfortunately, it is permanent. To prevent this side effect, patients should let their medical team know right away if they see an indentation around the skin at the injection site. They should inform the staff about any redness, pain, skin peeling, or black or blue-green skin discoloration at the site as well.

Other side effects include headaches, anxiety, excess fluid in the lungs, stomach pain, nausea, and reduced urinary output. Patients should let their medical team know if they experience any side effects during treatment. They should also inform medical staff about all of the medications that they use. This is to prevent potential interactions. Severe side effects may occur if this medication is used with linezolid, isocarboxazid, procarbazine, or tranylcypromine.