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BUPIVACAINE HYDROCHLORIDE AND EPINEPHRINE

Prescription ANDA Official labelling
Informational index, not medical advice. Content is reproduced from public FDA and NLM data. Always confirm against the manufacturer's current prescribing information. Report adverse events to FDA MedWatch.

Overview

Brand name
Bupivacaine Hydrochloride and Epinephrine
Generic name
Bupivacaine Hydrochloride And Epinephrine
Dosage form
Injection, Solution
Route
Epidural
Marketing category
ANDA · ANDA
Labeler
Hospira, Inc.
Product type
Human Prescription Drug
DEA schedule
Not scheduled
Active ingredients
3
NDC product codes
5
Packages
7
Data completeness
83% of corroborating sources present

Active ingredients

Source: NDC Directory
Active ingredients and strengths as listed in the NDC Directory.
Ingredient Strength RxCUI Monograph
Bupivacaine Hydrochloride 2.5 mg/mL 1724786 View
Bupivacaine Hydrochloride 5 mg/mL 1724786 View
Epinephrine Bitartrate 5 ug/mL 1595035 View

Forms, strengths and routes

Source: NDC Directory
Dosage form
Injection, Solution
Route of administration
Epidural
Presentations
12

Pharmacologic classes are listed in the class section below.

Pharmacologic class

Source: NDC Directory
Established pharmacologic classes (EPC), mechanisms of action (MoA), chemical structures (CS) and physiologic effects (PE).
Class Type Browse
Adrenergic alpha-Agonists [MoA] MoA All 85 members
Adrenergic beta-Agonists [MoA] MoA All 37 members
Amide Local Anesthetic [EPC] EPC All 47 members
Amides [CS] CS All 47 members
Catecholamine [EPC] EPC All 39 members
Catecholamines [CS] CS All 41 members
Local Anesthesia [PE] PE All 53 members
alpha-Adrenergic Agonist [EPC] EPC All 85 members
beta-Adrenergic Agonist [EPC] EPC All 37 members

Regulatory status

Source: Drugs@FDANDC Directory
Application number
071165
Application type
ANDA · Abbreviated New Drug Application
Approval date
June 16, 1988
Sponsor
HOSPIRA
Products on application
1
Submissions recorded
14
Products approved under application 071165.
Product Trade name Form Strength Ingredient Status TE Flags
071165-001 BUPIVACAINE HYDROCHLORIDE AND EPINEPHRINE INJECTABLE BUPIVACAINE HYDROCHLORIDE; EPINEPHRINE Prescription — RS

Therapeutic equivalence

Source: Orange Book
TE code
—
Reference Listed Drug
No
Reference Standard
Yes

Codes beginning with “A” indicate products the FDA considers therapeutically equivalent. Codes beginning with “B” indicate bioequivalence has not been established. See methodology.

Approval history

Source: Drugs@FDA
Most recent submissions on application 071165.
Type No. Action Status Date Review
Supplement 42 Labeling Approved July 6, 2021 Standard
Supplement 38 Labeling Approved December 9, 2020 Standard
Supplement 30 Labeling Approved August 20, 2015 Standard
Supplement 28 Labeling Approved August 20, 2015 Standard
Supplement 20 Labeling Approved February 19, 2010 —
Supplement 10 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved December 20, 2002 —
Supplement 9 Labeling Approved November 22, 1999 —
Supplement 7 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved September 26, 1997 —
Supplement 3 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved February 21, 1991 —
Supplement 2 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved February 21, 1991 —
Supplement 1 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved February 21, 1991 —
Supplement 5 Labeling Approved October 3, 1990 —
Supplement 4 Labeling Approved May 4, 1990 —
Original application 1 Approved June 16, 1988 —

Review documents

  • 0 · Supplement · February 22, 2010

Prescribing information

Source: openFDA Drug Labeling

Reproduced verbatim from the Structured Product Labeling submitted to the FDA (effective 20260309). This is the manufacturer's labelling text, not a summary and not advice.

HUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUG · 20260309 HUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUG · 20251027

Boxed Warning

openFDA Drug Labeling

WARNING: RISK OF CARDIAC ARREST WITH USE OF BUPIVACAINE HYDROCHLORIDE INJECTION IN OBSTETRICAL ANESTHESIA There have been reports of cardiac arrest with difficult resuscitation or death during use of Bupivacaine Hydrochloride Injection for epidural anesthesia in obstetrical patients. In most cases, this has followed use of the 0.75% (7.5 mg/mL) concentration. Resuscitation has been difficult or impossible despite apparently adequate preparation and appropriate management. Cardiac arrest has occurred after convulsions resulting from systemic toxicity, presumably following unintentional intravascular injection. The 0.75% (7.5 mg/mL) concentration of Bupivacaine Hydrochloride Injection is not recommended for obstetrical anesthesia and should be reserved for surgical procedures where a high degree of muscle relaxation and prolonged effect are necessary [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ]. WARNING: RISK OF CARDIAC ARREST WITH USE OF BUPIVACAINE HYDROCHLORIDE INJECTION IN OBSTETRICAL ANESTHESIA See full prescribing information for complete boxed warning. There have been reports of cardiac arrest with difficult resuscitation or death during use of Bupivacaine Hydrochloride Injection for epidural anesthesia in obstetrical patients. In most cases, this has followed use of the 0.75% (7.5 mg/mL) concentration. Resuscitation has been difficult or impossible despite apparently adequate preparation and appropriate management. Cardiac arrest has occurred after convulsions resulting from systemic toxicity, presumably following unintentional intravascular injection. The 0.75% (7.5 mg/mL) concentration of Bupivacaine Hydrochloride Injection is not recommended for obstetrical anesthesia and should be reserved for surgical procedures where a high degree of muscle relaxation and prolonged effect are necessary ( 5.1 ).

Indications and Usage

openFDA Drug Labeling

1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE Bupivacaine Hydrochloride Injection/Bupivacaine Hydrochloride and Epinephrine Injection is indicated in adults for the production of local or regional anesthesia or analgesia for surgery, dental and oral surgery procedures, diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, and for obstetrical procedures. Specific concentrations and presentations of Bupivacaine Hydrochloride Injection/Bupivacaine Hydrochloride and Epinephrine Injection are recommended for each type of block indicated to produce local or regional anesthesia or analgesia [see Dosage and Administration (2.2) ]. Bupivacaine Hydrochloride Injection contains bupivacaine, an amide local anesthetic, and Bupivacaine Hydrochloride and Epinephrine Injection is a combination of bupivacaine, an amide local anesthetic, and epinephrine, an alpha and beta-adrenergic agonist. Bupivacaine Hydrochloride Injection/Bupivacaine Hydrochloride and Epinephrine Injection is indicated in adults for the production of local or regional anesthesia or analgesia for surgery, dental and oral surgery procedures, diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, and for obstetrical procedures. For each type of block indicated to produce local or regional anesthesia or analgesia, specific concentrations and presentations are recommended. ( 1 , 2.2 ) Limitations of Use Not all blocks are indicated for use with Bupivacaine Hydrochloride Injection/Bupivacaine Hydrochloride and Epinephrine Injection given clinically significant risks associated with use. ( 1 , 2.2 , 4 , 5.1 , 5.4 , 5.5 , 5.7 , 5.9 ) Limitations of Use Not all blocks are indicated for use with Bupivacaine Hydrochloride Injection/Bupivacaine Hydrochloride and Epinephrine Injection given clinically significant risks associated with use [see Dosage and Administration (2.2) , Contraindications (4) , Warnings and Precautions (5.1 , 5.4 , 5.5 , 5.7 , 5.9) ] .

Dosage and Administration

openFDA Drug Labeling

2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION • Not for intrathecal use. ( 2.1 ) • Avoid use of solutions containing antimicrobial preservatives (i.e., multiple-dose vials) for epidural or caudal anesthesia. ( 2.1 , 5.4 ) • Three mL of Bupivacaine Hydrochloride and Epinephrine Injection without antimicrobial preservative (0.5% bupivacaine with 1:200,000 epinephrine) is recommended for use as a test dose prior to caudal and lumbar epidural blocks when clinical conditions permit. ( 2.4 ) • See full prescribing information for: - Recommended concentrations and dosages of Bupivacaine Hydrochloride Injection/Bupivacaine Hydrochloride and Epinephrine Injection according to type of block. ( 2.2 ) - Additional dosage and administration information pertaining to use in epidural anesthesia, test dose for caudal and lumbar epidural blocks, use in dentistry, and use in ophthalmic surgery. ( 2.3 , 2.4 , 2.5 , 2.6 ) 2.1 Important Dosage and Administration Information • Bupivacaine Hydrochloride Injection/Bupivacaine Hydrochloride and Epinephrine Injection is not for intrathecal use. • Avoid use of Bupivacaine Hydrochloride Injection/Bupivacaine Hydrochloride and Epinephrine Injection solutions containing antimicrobial preservatives (i.e., multiple-dose vials) for epidural or caudal anesthesia [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) ] . • Discard unused portions of solution not containing preservatives, i.e., those supplied in single-dose vials, following initial use. • Visually inspect this product for particulate matter and discoloration prior to administration whenever solution and container permit. Bupivacaine Hydrochloride Injection/Bupivacaine Hydrochloride and Epinephrine Injection are clear, colorless solutions. Do not administer solutions which are discolored or contain particulate matter. • Mixing or the prior or intercurrent use of any other local anesthetic with Bupivacaine Hydrochloride Injection/Bupivacaine Hydrochloride and Epinephrine Injection is not recommended because of insufficient data on the clinical use of such mixtures. Administration Precautions • Bupivacaine Hydrochloride Injection Injection/Bupivacaine Hydrochloride and Epinephrine Injection are to be administered in carefully adjusted dosages by or under the supervision of experienced clinicians who are well versed in the diagnosis and management of dose-related toxicity and other acute emergencies which might arise from the block to be employed. • Use Bupivacaine Hydrochloride Injection/Bupivacaine Hydrochloride and Epinephrine Injection only if the following are immediately available: oxygen, cardiopulmonary resuscitative equipment and drugs, and the personnel resources needed for proper management of toxic reactions and related emergencies [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) , Adverse Reactions (6) , Overdosage (10) ] . • The toxic effects of local anesthetics are additive. Monitor for neurologic and cardiovascular effects related to local anesthetic systemic toxicity when additional local anesthetics are administered with Bupivacaine Hydrochloride Injection/Bupivacaine Hydrochloride and Epinephrine Injection [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) , Drug Interactions (7.1) , Overdosage (10) ] . • Aspirate for blood or cerebrospinal fluid (where applicable) prior to injecting Bupivacaine Hydrochloride Injection/Bupivacaine Hydrochloride and Epinephrine Injection, both the initial dose and all subsequent doses, to avoid intravascular or intrathecal injection. However, a negative aspiration for blood or cerebrospinal fluid does not ensure against an intravascular or intrathecal injection [see Warnings and Precautions (5.9) ] . • Avoid rapid injection of a large volume of Bupivacaine Hydrochloride Injection/Bupivacaine Hydrochloride and Epinephrine Injection and use fractional (incremental) doses when feasible. • During major regional nerve blocks, such as those of the brachial plexus or lower extremity, the patient should have an indwelling intravenous catheter to assure adequate intrave …

Dosage Forms and Strengths

openFDA Drug Labeling

3 DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS Bupivacaine Hydrochloride Injection, USP is a clear, colorless solution available as: • 0.25% (25 mg/10 mL) (2.5 mg/mL) in single-dose teartop vials. • 0.25% (75 mg/30 mL) (2.5 mg/mL) in single-dose teartop vials. • 0.25% (125 mg/50 mL) (2.5 mg/mL) in multiple-dose fliptop vials. • 0.5% (50 mg/10 mL) (5 mg/mL) in single-dose teartop vials. • 0.5% (150 mg/30 mL) (5 mg/mL) in single-dose teartop vials. • 0.5% (250 mg/50 mL) (5 mg/mL) in multiple-dose fliptop vials. • 0.75% (75 mg/10 mL) (7.5 mg/mL) in single-dose teartop vials. • 0.75% (225 mg/30 mL) (7.5 mg/mL) in single-dose teartop vials. Bupivacaine Hydrochloride and Epinephrine Injection, USP is a clear, colorless solution available as: • 0.25% (25 mg/10 mL) (2.5 mg/mL) in single-dose teartop vials. • 0.25% (75 mg/30 mL) (2.5 mg/mL) in single-dose teartop vials. • 0.25% (125 mg/50 mL) (2.5 mg/mL) in multiple-dose fliptop vials. • 0.5% (50 mg/10 mL) (5 mg/mL) in single-dose teartop vials. • 0.5% (150 mg/30 mL) (5 mg/mL) in single-dose teartop vials. • 0.5% (250 mg/50 mL) (5 mg/mL) in multiple-dose fliptop vials. Bupivacaine Hydrochloride Injection, USP and Bupivacaine Hydrochloride and Epinephrine Injection, USP are available in multiple concentrations. See full prescribing information for detailed description of each formulation. ( 3 )

Contraindications

openFDA Drug Labeling

4 CONTRAINDICATIONS Bupivacaine Hydrochloride Injection/Bupivacaine Hydrochloride and Epinephrine Injection is contraindicated in: • obstetrical paracervical block anesthesia. Its use in this technique has resulted in fetal bradycardia and death. • intravenous regional anesthesia (Bier Block) [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7) ]. • patients with a known hypersensitivity to bupivacaine or to any local anesthetic agent of the amide-type or to other components of Bupivacaine Hydrochloride Injection/Bupivacaine Hydrochloride and Epinephrine Injection. • Obstetrical paracervical block anesthesia. Its use in this technique has resulted in fetal bradycardia and death. ( 4 ) • Intravenous regional anesthesia (Bier Block). ( 4 ) • Known hypersensitivity to bupivacaine or to any local anesthetic agent of the amide-type or to other components of Bupivacaine Hydrochloride Injection/Bupivacaine Hydrochloride and Epinephrine Injection. ( 4 )

Warnings and Cautions

openFDA Drug Labeling

5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS • Dose-Related Toxicity : Monitor cardiovascular and respiratory vital signs and patient's state of consciousness after injection of Bupivacaine Hydrochloride Injection/Bupivacaine Hydrochloride and Epinephrine Injection. ( 5.2 ) • Methemoglobinemia : Cases of methemoglobinemia have been reported in association with local anesthetic use. See full prescribing information for more detail on managing these risks. ( 5.3 ) • Chondrolysis with Intra-Articular Infusion : Intra-articular infusions of local anesthetics including Bupivacaine Hydrochloride Injection following arthroscopic and other surgical procedures is an unapproved use, and there have been post-marketing reports of chondrolysis in patients receiving such infusions. ( 5.5 ) • Risk of Cardiac Arrest with Intravenous Regional Anesthesia Use (Bier Block) : There have been reports of cardiac arrest and death during the use of bupivacaine for intravenous regional anesthesia (Bier Block). ( 5.7 ) • Allergic-Type Reactions to Sulfites in Bupivacaine Hydrochloride and Epinephrine Injection : Bupivacaine Hydrochloride and Epinephrine Injection contains sodium metabisulfite, a sulfite that may cause allergic-type reactions including anaphylactic symptoms and life-threatening or less severe asthmatic episodes in certain susceptible people. ( 5.8 ) • Risk of Systemic Toxicities with Unintended Intravascular or Intrathecal Injection : Unintended intravascular or intrathecal injection may be associated with systemic toxicities, including CNS or cardiorespiratory depression and coma, progressing ultimately to respiratory arrest. Aspirate for blood or cerebrospinal fluid (where applicable) prior to each dose and consider using a test dose of Bupivacaine Hydrochloride and Epinephrine Injection. ( 5.9 ) 5.1 Risk of Cardiac Arrest with Use of Bupivacaine Hydrochloride Injection in Obstetrical Anesthesia There have been reports of cardiac arrest with difficult resuscitation or death during use of Bupivacaine Hydrochloride Injection for epidural anesthesia in obstetrical patients. In most cases, this has followed use of the 0.75% (7.5 mg/mL) concentration. Resuscitation has been difficult or impossible despite apparently adequate preparation and appropriate management. Cardiac arrest has occurred after convulsions resulting from systemic toxicity, presumably following unintentional intravascular injection. The 0.75% (7.5 mg/mL) concentration of Bupivacaine Hydrochloride Injection is not recommended for obstetrical anesthesia and should be reserved for surgical procedures where a high degree of muscle relaxation and prolonged effect are necessary. 5.2 Dose-Related Toxicity The safety and effectiveness of Bupivacaine Hydrochloride Injection/Bupivacaine Hydrochloride and Epinephrine Injection depend on proper dosage, correct technique, adequate precautions, and readiness for emergencies. Careful and constant monitoring of cardiovascular and respiratory (adequacy of ventilation) vital signs and the patient's state of consciousness should be performed after injection of Bupivacaine Hydrochloride Injection/Bupivacaine Hydrochloride and Epinephrine Injection solutions. Possible early warning signs of central nervous system (CNS) toxicity are restlessness, anxiety, incoherent speech, lightheadedness, numbness and tingling of the mouth and lips, metallic taste, tinnitus, dizziness, blurred vision, tremors, twitching, CNS depression, or drowsiness. Delay in proper management of dose-related toxicity, underventilation from any cause, and/or altered sensitivity may lead to the development of acidosis, cardiac arrest, and, possibly, death. During major regional nerve blocks, such as those of the brachial plexus or lower extremity, the patient should have an indwelling intravenous catheter to assure adequate intravenous access. Use the lowest dosage of Bupivacaine Hydrochloride Injection/Bupivacaine Hydrochloride and Epinephrine Injection that results in effective anesthesia t …

Warnings LOCAL ANESTHETICS SHOULD ONLY BE EMPLOYED BY CLINICIANS WHO ARE WELL VERSED IN DIAGNOSIS AND MANAGEMENT OF DOSE-RELATED TOXICITY AND OTHER ACUTE EMERGENCIES WHICH MIGHT ARISE FROM THE BLOCK TO BE EMPLOYED, AND THEN ONLY AFTER INSURING THE IMMEDIATE AVAILABILITY OF OXYGEN, OTHER RESUSCITATIVE DRUGS, CARDIOPULMONARY RESUSCITATIVE EQUIPMENT, AND THE PERSONNEL RESOURCES NEEDED FOR PROPER MANAGEMENT OF TOXIC REACTIONS AND RELATED EMERGENCIES. (See also ADVERSE REACTIONS, PRECAUTIONS, and OVERDOSAGE .) DELAY IN PROPER MANAGEMENT OF DOSERELATED TOXICITY, UNDERVENTILATION FROM ANY CAUSE, AND/OR ALTERED SENSITIVITY MAY LEAD TO THE DEVELOPMENT OF ACIDOSIS, CARDIAC ARREST AND, POSSIBLY, DEATH. Local anesthetic solutions containing antimicrobial preservatives, i.e., those supplied in multiple-dose vials, should not be used for epidural or caudal anesthesia because safety has not been established with regard to intrathecal injection, either intentionally or unintentionally, of such preservatives. Intra-articular infusions of local anesthetics following arthroscopic and other surgical procedures is an unapproved use, and there have been post-marketing reports of chondrolysis in patients receiving such infusions. The majority of reported cases of chondrolysis have involved the shoulder joint; cases of gleno-humeral chondrolysis have been described in pediatric and adult patients following intraarticular infusions of local anesthetics with and without epinephrine for periods of 48 to 72 hours. There is insufficient information to determine whether shorter infusion periods are not associated with these findings. The time of onset of symptoms, such as joint pain, stiffness and loss of motion can be variable, but may begin as early as the 2nd month after surgery. Currently, there is no effective treatment for chondrolysis; patients who experienced chondrolysis have required additional diagnostic and therapeutic procedures and some required arthroplasty or shoulder replacement. It is essential that aspiration for blood or cerebrospinal fluid (where applicable) be done prior to injecting any local anesthetic, both the original dose and all subsequent doses, to avoid intravascular or subarachnoid injection. However, a negative aspiration does not ensure against an intravascular or subarachnoid injection. Bupivacaine Hydrochloride with epinephrine 1:200,000 or other vasopressors should not be used concomitantly with ergot-type oxytocic drugs, because a severe persistent hypertension may occur. Likewise, solutions of Bupivacaine Hydrochloride containing a vasoconstrictor, such as epinephrine, should be used with extreme caution in patients receiving monoamineoxidase inhibitors (MAOI) or antidepressants of the triptyline or imipramine types, because severe prolonged hypertension may result. Until further experience is gained in pediatric patients younger than 12 years, administration of Bupivacaine Hydrochloride in this age group is not recommended. Mixing or the prior or intercurrent use of any other local anesthetic with Bupivacaine Hydrochloride cannot be recommended because of insufficient data on the clinical use of such mixtures. There have been reports of cardiac arrest and death during the use of Bupivacaine Hydrochloride for intravenous regional anesthesia (Bier Block). Information on safe dosages and techniques of administration of Bupivacaine Hydrochloride in this procedure is lacking. Therefore, Bupivacaine Hydrochloride is not recommended for use in this technique. Bupivacaine Hydrochloride with epinephrine 1:200,000 contains sodium metabisulfite, a sulfite that may cause allergic-type reactions including anaphylactic symptoms and life-threatening or less severe asthmatic episodes in certain susceptible people. The overall prevalence of sulfite sensitivity in the general population is unknown and probably low. Sulfite sensitivity is seen more frequently in asthmatic than in nonasthmatic people. Single-dose ampuls and single-dose …

Adverse Reactions

openFDA Drug Labeling

6 ADVERSE REACTIONS The following clinically significant adverse reactions have been reported and described in the Warnings and Precautions section of the labeling: • Cardiac Arrest in Obstetrical Anesthesia [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] • Dose-Related Toxicity [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] • Methemoglobinemia [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ] • Chondrolysis with Intra-Articular Infusion [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5) ] • Severe, Persistent Hypertension, Cerebrovascular Accidents, and Bradycardia Due to Drug Interactions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6) ] • Cardiac Arrest with Intravenous Regional Anesthesia Use [see Contraindications (4) , Warnings and Precautions (5.7) ] • Allergic-Type Reactions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.8) ] • Systemic Toxicities with Unintended Intravascular or Intrathecal Injection [see Warnings and Precautions (5.9) ] • Respiratory Arrest Following Retrobulbar Block [see Warnings and Precautions (5.15) ] The following adverse reactions from voluntary reports or clinical studies have been reported with bupivacaine or bupivacaine and epinephrine. Because many of these reactions were reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure. Adverse reactions to Bupivacaine Hydrochloride Injection/Bupivacaine Hydrochloride and Epinephrine Injection are characteristic of those associated with other amide-type local anesthetics. A major cause of adverse reactions to this group of drugs is excessive plasma levels, which may be due to overdosage, unintentional intravascular injection, or slow metabolic degradation. The most commonly encountered acute adverse reactions that demand immediate counter-measures were related to the CNS and the cardiovascular system. These adverse reactions were generally dose-related and due to high plasma levels which may have resulted from overdosage, rapid absorption from the injection site, diminished tolerance, or from unintentional intravascular injection of the local anesthetic solution. In addition to systemic dose-related toxicity, unintentional intrathecal injection of drug during the intended performance of caudal or lumbar epidural block or nerve blocks near the vertebral column (especially in the head and neck region) has resulted in underventilation or apnea ("Total or High Spinal"). Also, hypotension due to loss of sympathetic tone and respiratory paralysis or underventilation due to cephalad extension of the motor level of anesthesia have occurred. This has led to secondary cardiac arrest when untreated. Most common adverse reactions are related to the central nervous system and the cardiovascular system. ( 6 ) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Pfizer Inc. at 1-800-438-1985 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch . Nervous System Disorders Adverse reactions were characterized by excitation and/or depression of the central nervous system and included restlessness, anxiety, dizziness, tinnitus, blurred vision, tremors, convulsions, drowsiness, unconsciousness, respiratory arrest, nausea, vomiting, chills, pupillary constriction. In the practice of caudal or lumbar epidural block, unintentional penetration of the subarachnoid space by the catheter or needle has occurred. Subsequent adverse effects may have depended partially on the amount of drug administered intrathecally and the physiological and physical effects of a dural puncture. A high spinal has been characterized by paralysis of the legs, loss of consciousness, respiratory paralysis, and bradycardia. Neurologic effects following epidural or caudal anesthesia have included spinal block of varying magnitude (including high or total spinal block); hypotension secondary to spinal block; urinary retention; fecal and urinary incontinence; loss of perineal sensation and sexual function; persistent anesthesia, paresthesia, weakness, paralysis of the …

Drug Interactions

openFDA Drug Labeling

7 DRUG INTERACTIONS • Local Anesthetics : The toxic effects of local anesthetics are additive. Monitor for neurologic and cardiovascular effects when additional local anesthetics are administered. ( 7.1 ) • Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors and Tricyclic Antidepressants : Administration of Bupivacaine Hydrochloride and Epinephrine Injection to patients receiving monoamine oxidase inhibitors or tricyclic antidepressants may produce severe, prolonged hypertension. Concurrent use of these agents should generally be avoided. ( 5.6 , 7.2 ) • Ergot-Type Oxytocic Drugs : Concurrent administration of Bupivacaine Hydrochloride and Epinephrine Injection and ergot-type oxytocic drugs may cause severe, persistent hypertension or cerebrovascular accidents. ( 5.6 , 7.3 ) • Nonselective Beta-Adrenergic Antagonists : Administration of Bupivacaine Hydrochloride and Epinephrine Injection (containing a vasoconstrictor) in patients receiving nonselective beta-adrenergic antagonists may cause severe hypertension and bradycardia. Concurrent use of these agents should generally be avoided. ( 5.6 , 7.4 ) • Drugs Associated with Methemoglobinemia : Patients are at increased risk of developing methemoglobinemia when concurrently exposed to nitrates, nitrites, local anesthetics, antineoplastic agents, antibiotics, antimalarials, anticonvulsants, and other drugs. ( 7.5 ) • Potent Inhalation Anesthetics : Serious dose-related cardiac arrhythmias may occur if preparations containing a vasoconstrictor such as epinephrine are used in patients during or following the administration of potent inhalation anesthetics. ( 5.13 , 7.6 ) 7.1 Local Anesthetics The toxic effects of local anesthetics are additive. If coadministration of other local anesthetics with Bupivacaine Hydrochloride Injection/Bupivacaine Hydrochloride and Epinephrine Injection cannot be avoided, monitor patients for neurologic and cardiovascular effects related to local anesthetic systemic toxicity [see Dosage and Administration (2.1) , Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] . 7.2 Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors and Tricyclic Antidepressants The administration of Bupivacaine Hydrochloride and Epinephrine Injection to patients receiving monoamine oxidase inhibitors, or tricyclic antidepressants may produce severe, prolonged hypertension. Concurrent use of these agents should generally be avoided. In situations when concurrent therapy is necessary, careful monitoring of the patient's hemodynamic status is essential [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6) ] . 7.3 Ergot-Type Oxytocic Drugs Concurrent administration of Bupivacaine Hydrochloride and Epinephrine Injection and ergot-type oxytocic drugs may cause severe, persistent hypertension or cerebrovascular accidents. Avoid use of Bupivacaine Hydrochloride and Epinephrine concomitantly with ergot-type oxytocic drugs [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6) ]. 7.4 Nonselective Beta-Adrenergic Antagonists Administration of Bupivacaine Hydrochloride and Epinephrine Injection (containing a vasoconstrictor) in patients receiving nonselective beta-adrenergic antagonists may cause severe hypertension and bradycardia. Concurrent use of these agents should generally be avoided. In situations when concurrent therapy is necessary, careful monitoring of the patient's blood pressure and heart rate is essential [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6) ]. 7.5 Drugs Associated with Methemoglobinemia Patients who are administered Bupivacaine Hydrochloride Injection/Bupivacaine Hydrochloride and Epinephrine Injection are at increased risk of developing methemoglobinemia when concurrently exposed to the following drugs, which could include other local anesthetics [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ] . Examples of Drugs Associated with Methemoglobinemia: Class Examples Nitrates/Nitrites nitric oxide, nitroglycerin, nitroprusside, nitrous oxide Local anesthetics articaine, benzocaine, bupivacaine, lidocaine, mepivacaine, prilocaine, procaine, ropivacaine, tetracaine Antineoplastic agents cycloph …

Use in Specific Populations

openFDA Drug Labeling

8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS • Pediatric Use : Administration of Bupivacaine Hydrochloride Injection/Bupivacaine Hydrochloride and Epinephrine Injection in pediatric patients younger than 12 years is not recommended. ( 8.4 ) • Geriatric Use : Patients 65 years and over, particularly those with hypertension, may be at increased risk for developing hypotension while undergoing anesthesia with Bupivacaine Hydrochloride Injection/Bupivacaine Hydrochloride and Epinephrine Injection. ( 8.5 ) • Moderate to Severe Hepatic Impairment : Consider increased monitoring for bupivacaine systemic toxicity. ( 8.6 ) 8.1 Pregnancy Risk Summary Bupivacaine Hydrochloride Injection/Bupivacaine Hydrochloride and Epinephrine Injection is contraindicated for obstetrical paracervical block anesthesia. Its use in this technique has resulted in fetal bradycardia and death [see Contraindications (4) , Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ]. There are no available data on use of Bupivacaine Hydrochloride Injection/Bupivacaine Hydrochloride and Epinephrine Injection in pregnant women to inform a drug-associated risk of adverse developmental outcomes. In animal studies, embryo-fetal lethality was noted when bupivacaine was administered subcutaneously to pregnant rabbits during organogenesis at clinically relevant doses. Decreased pup survival was observed in a rat pre- and post-natal developmental study (dosing from implantation through weaning) at a dose level comparable to the daily maximum recommended human dose (MRHD) on a body surface area (BSA) basis. Based on animal data, advise pregnant women of the potential risks to a fetus (see Data ). Local anesthetics rapidly cross the placenta, and when used for epidural, caudal, or pudendal block anesthesia, can cause varying degrees of maternal, fetal, and neonatal toxicity [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ]. The incidence and degree of toxicity depend upon the procedure performed, the type, and amount of drug used, and the technique of drug administration. Adverse reactions in the parturient, fetus, and neonate involve alterations of the CNS, peripheral vascular tone, and cardiac function. If this drug is used during pregnancy, or if the patient becomes pregnant while taking this drug, inform the patient of the potential hazard to the fetus. The estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated populations are unknown. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2–4% and 15–20%, respectively. Clinical Considerations Maternal Adverse Reactions Maternal hypotension has resulted from regional anesthesia. Local anesthetics produce vasodilation by blocking sympathetic nerves. The supine position is dangerous in pregnant women at term because of aortocaval compression by the gravid uterus. Therefore, during treatment of systemic toxicity, maternal hypotension or fetal bradycardia following regional block, the parturient should be maintained in the left lateral decubitus position if possible, or manual displacement of the uterus off the great vessels be accomplished. Elevating the patient's legs will also help prevent decreases in blood pressure. The fetal heart rate also should be monitored continuously and electronic fetal monitoring is highly advisable. Labor or Delivery Epidural, caudal, or pudendal anesthesia may alter the forces of parturition through changes in uterine contractility or maternal expulsive efforts. Epidural anesthesia has been reported to prolong the second stage of labor by removing the parturient's reflex urge to bear down or by interfering with motor function. The use of obstetrical anesthesia may increase the need for forceps assistance. The use of some local anesthetic drug products during labor and delivery may be followed by diminished muscle strength and tone for the first day or two of life. This has not been reported with bupivacaine. It is extremely important …

Mechanism of Action

openFDA Drug Labeling

12.1 Mechanism of Action Bupivacaine blocks the generation and the conduction of nerve impulses, presumably by increasing the threshold for electrical excitation in the nerve, by slowing the propagation of the nerve impulse, and by reducing the rate of rise of the action potential. In general, the progression of anesthesia is related to the diameter, myelination, and conduction velocity of affected nerve fibers. Clinically, the order of loss of nerve function is as follows: (1) pain, (2) temperature, (3) touch, (4) proprioception, and (5) skeletal muscle tone. Epinephrine is a vasoconstrictor added to bupivacaine to slow absorption into the general circulation and thus prolong maintenance of an active tissue concentration.

Description

openFDA Drug Labeling

11 DESCRIPTION Bupivacaine Hydrochloride Injection/Bupivacaine Hydrochloride and Epinephrine Injection contains bupivacaine hydrochloride, an amide local anesthetic, as the active pharmaceutical ingredient. The route of administration for Bupivacaine Hydrochloride Injection (without epinephrine) is by injection, for infiltration, perineural, caudal, epidural, or retrobulbar use. The route of administration for Bupivacaine Hydrochloride and Epinephrine Injection is by injection, for infiltration, perineural, caudal, or epidural use. Multiple-dose vials contain methylparaben [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) ] . Bupivacaine hydrochloride is 2-piperidinecarboxamide, 1-butyl- N -(2,6-dimethylphenyl)-, monohydrochloride, monohydrate. It is a white crystalline powder that is freely soluble in 95 percent ethanol, soluble in water, and slightly soluble in chloroform or acetone. It has the following structural formula: Bupivacaine hydrochloride with 1:200,000 epinephrine, contains bupivacaine hydrochloride and epinephrine (an alpha and beta-adrenergic agonist) as active pharmaceutical ingredients. This product is for injection via local infiltration, peripheral nerve block, and caudal and lumbar epidural blocks. Multiple-dose vials contain methylparaben and they should not be used for caudal and lumbar epidural blocks. Epinephrine is (-)-3,4-Dihydroxy-α-[(methylamino)methyl] benzyl alcohol. Epinephrine is a vasoconstrictor. It has the following structural formula: Bupivacaine Hydrochloride Injection, USP is a clear and colorless sterile isotonic solution. Each mL of single-dose vial contains 2.5 mg, 5 mg, or 7.5 mg of bupivacaine hydrochloride (equivalent to 2.22 mg, 4.44 mg, or 6.66 mg of bupivacaine, respectively), sodium chloride for isotonicity, sodium hydroxide or hydrochloric acid to adjust the pH between 4 and 6.5, in water for injection. For the multiple-dose vials, each mL also contains 1 mg methylparaben as preservative. Bupivacaine Hydrochloride and Epinephrine Injection, USP is a clear and colorless sterile isotonic solution. Each mL contains 2.5 mg or 5 mg bupivacaine hydrochloride (equivalent to 2.22 mg or 4.44 mg of bupivacaine, respectively), and 0.005 mg of epinephrine, with sodium chloride for isotonicity, 0.1 mg sodium metabisulfite as antioxidant, and 0.1 mg edetate calcium disodium anhydrous as stabilizer. The pH of these solutions is adjusted to between 3.3 and 5.5 with sodium hydroxide or hydrochloric acid. For the multiple-dose vials, each mL also contains 1 mg methylparaben as preservative. The specific gravity of Bupivacaine Hydrochloride and Epinephrine Injection [0.5% (5 mg/mL) of bupivacaine] at 25 oC is 1.007. Chemical Structure Chemical Structure

Overdosage Acute emergencies from local anesthetics are generally related to high plasma levels encountered during therapeutic use of local anesthetics or to unintended subarachnoid injection of local anesthetic solution. (See ADVERSE REACTIONS, WARNINGS, and PRECAUTIONS.) Management of Local Anesthetic Emergencies : The first consideration is prevention, best accomplished by careful and constant monitoring of cardiovascular and respiratory vital signs and the patient’s state of consciousness after each local anesthetic injection. At the first sign of change, oxygen should be administered. The first step in the management of systemic toxic reactions, as well as underventilation or apnea due to unintentional subarachnoid injection of drug solution, consists of immediate attention to the establishment and maintenance of a patent airway and effective assisted or controlled ventilation with 100% oxygen with a delivery system capable of permitting immediate positive airway pressure by mask. This may prevent convulsions if they have not already occurred. If necessary, use drugs to control the convulsions. A 50 mg to 100 mg bolus IV injection of succinylcholine will paralyze the patient without depressing the central nervous or cardiovascular systems and facilitate ventilation. A bolus IV dose of 5 mg to 10 mg of diazepam or 50 mg to 100 mg of thiopental will permit ventilation and counteract central nervous system stimulation, but these drugs also depress central nervous system, respiratory, and cardiac function, add to postictal depression and may result in apnea. Intravenous barbiturates, anticonvulsant agents, or muscle relaxants should only be administered by those familiar with their use. Immediately after the institution of these ventilatory measures, the adequacy of the circulation should be evaluated. Supportive treatment of circulatory depression may require administration of intravenous fluids, and when appropriate, a vasopressor dictated by the clinical situation (such as ephedrine or epinephrine to enhance myocardial contractile force). Endotracheal intubation, employing drugs and techniques familiar to the clinician, may be indicated after initial administration of oxygen by mask if difficulty is encountered in the maintenance of a patent airway, or if prolonged ventilatory support (assisted or controlled) is indicated. Recent clinical data from patients experiencing local anesthetic-induced convulsions demonstrated rapid development of hypoxia, hypercarbia, and acidosis with bupivacaine within a minute of the onset of convulsions. These observations suggest that oxygen consumption and carbon dioxide production are greatly increased during local anesthetic convulsions and emphasize the importance of immediate and effective ventilation with oxygen which may avoid cardiac arrest. If not treated immediately, convulsions with simultaneous hypoxia, hypercarbia, and acidosis plus myocardial depression from the direct effects of the local anesthetic may result in cardiac arrhythmias, bradycardia, asystole, ventricular fibrillation, or cardiac arrest. Respiratory abnormalities, including apnea, may occur. Underventilation or apnea due to unintentional subarachnoid injection of local anesthetic solution may produce these same signs and also lead to cardiac arrest if ventilatory support is not instituted. If cardiac arrest should occur, successful outcome may require prolonged resuscitative efforts. The supine position is dangerous in pregnant women at term because of aortocaval compression by the gravid uterus. Therefore during treatment of systemic toxicity, maternal hypotension or fetal bradycardia following regional block, the parturient should be maintained in the left lateral decubitus position if possible, or manual displacement of the uterus off the great vessels be accomplished. The mean seizure dosage of bupivacaine in rhesus monkeys was found to be 4.4 mg/kg with mean arterial plasma concentration of 4.5 mcg/mL. The in …

How Supplied / Storage and Handling

openFDA Drug Labeling

16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING Store at 20 °C to 25 °C (68 °F to 77 °F); excursions permitted between 15 °C to 30 °C (59 °F to 86 °F). [See USP Controlled Room Temperature.] Bupivacaine Hydrochloride Injection, USP ─ Solutions of bupivacaine hydrochloride that do not contain epinephrine may be autoclaved. Autoclave at 15-pound pressure, 121 °C (250 °F) for 15 minutes. This product is clear and colorless. Do not use the solution if it is discolored or if it contains a precipitate. Unit of Sale Concentration NDC 0409-1159-01 Tray of 25 single-dose teartop vials 0.25% 25 mg/10 mL (2.5 mg/mL) NDC 0409-1159-02 Tray of 25 single-dose teartop vials 0.25% 75 mg/30 mL (2.5 mg/mL) NDC 0409-1160-01 Tray of 25 multiple-dose fliptop vials 0.25% 125 mg/50 mL (2.5 mg/mL) NDC 0409-1163-01 Tray of 25 multiple-dose fliptop vials 0.5% 250 mg/50 mL (5 mg/mL) NDC 0409-1162-01 Tray of 25 single-dose teartop vials 0.5% 50 mg/10 mL (5 mg/mL) NDC 0409-1162-02 Tray of 25 single-dose teartop vials 0.5% 150 mg/30 mL (5 mg/mL) NDC 0409-1165-01 Tray of 25 single-dose teartop vials 0.75% 75 mg/10 mL (7.5 mg/mL) NDC 0409-1165-02 Tray of 25 single-dose teartop vials 0.75% 225 mg/30 mL (7.5 mg/mL) For single-dose vials: Discard unused portion. Bupivacaine Hydrochloride and Epinephrine Injection, USP ─ Do not autoclave solutions of bupivacaine hydrochloride that contain epinephrine and protect from light. This product is clear and colorless. Do not use the solution if it is discolored or if it contains a precipitate. Unit of Sale Concentration NDC 0409-9042-01 Carton of 10 single-dose teartop vials 0.25% 25 mg/10 mL (2.5 mg/mL) NDC 0409-9042-17 Tray of 25 single-dose teartop vials 0.25% 75 mg/30 mL (2.5 mg/mL) NDC 0409-9043-01 Case of 25 cartons (Each carton includes 1 multiple-dose fliptop vial) 0.25% 125 mg/50 mL (2.5 mg/mL) NDC 0409-9045-01 Carton of 10 single-dose teartop vials 0.5% 50 mg/10 mL (5 mg/mL) NDC 0409-9045-17 Tray of 25 single-dose teartop vials 0.5% 150 mg/30 mL (5 mg/mL) NDC 0409-9046-01 Case of 25 cartons (Each carton includes 1 multiple-dose fliptop vial) 0.5% 250 mg/50 mL (5 mg/mL) For single-dose vials: Discard unused portion.

Adverse event reports

Source: openFDA FAERS
56,476
FAERS reports mentioning this drug
as of 2026-09-25T03:42:24+00:00
A report count is not a risk measure. FAERS accepts voluntary and mandatory reports without establishing causation, and reporting is influenced by how widely a drug is used, how long it has been marketed, and media attention. FDA states that reports “do not prove that the drug caused the event”. Compare rates, not totals.

Attributed to this product's most-reported active ingredient: EPINEPHRINE BITARTRATE. Combination products with more than six active ingredients are not attributed, because a report count summed across a long ingredient list measures the list, not the medicine.

Shortages

Source: FDA Drug Shortages
Availability records from the FDA Drug Shortages database.
Status Availability Company Presentation Updated
Current Unavailable Hospira, Inc., a Pfizer Company Bupivacaine Hydrochloride and Epinephrine, Injection, 150 mg/30 mL (5 mg/mL) (NDC 0409-9045-17) September 22, 2026
Current Unavailable Hospira, Inc., a Pfizer Company Bupivacaine Hydrochloride And Epinephrine, Injection, 250 mg/50 mL (5 mg/mL) (NDC 0409-9046-01) September 22, 2026
Current Unavailable Hospira, Inc., a Pfizer Company Bupivacaine Hydrochloride And Epinephrine, Injection, 50 mg/10 mL (5 mg/mL) (NDC 0409-9045-01) September 22, 2026
Current Unavailable Hospira, Inc., a Pfizer Company Bupivacaine Hydrochloride And Epinephrine, Injection, 25 mg/10 mL (2.5 mg/mL) (NDC 0409-9042-01) September 22, 2026
Current Unavailable Hospira, Inc., a Pfizer Company Bupivacaine Hydrochloride and Epinephrine, Injection, 125 mg/50 mL (2.5 mg/mL) (NDC 0409-9043-01) September 22, 2026
Current Unavailable Hospira, Inc., a Pfizer Company Bupivacaine Hydrochloride And Epinephrine, Injection, 75 mg/30 mL (2.5 mg/mL) (NDC 0409-9042-17) September 22, 2026

Packaging and NDCs

Source: NDC Directory
Every National Drug Code package associated with this medication. The NDC is the identifier used for dispensing, billing and pharmacovigilance in the United States.
Package NDC Product NDC Labeler Description Marketing start
0404-9828-30 0404-9828 Henry Schein, Inc. 1 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE in 1 BAG (0404-9828-30) / 30 mL in 1 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE January 9, 2022
0409-9042-01 0409-9042 Hospira, Inc. 10 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE in 1 CARTON (0409-9042-01) / 10 mL in 1 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE (0409-9042-11) August 26, 2005
0409-9042-17 0409-9042 Hospira, Inc. 25 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE in 1 TRAY (0409-9042-17) / 30 mL in 1 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE (0409-9042-16) March 21, 2011
0409-9043-01 0409-9043 Hospira, Inc. 25 CARTON in 1 BOX (0409-9043-01) / 1 VIAL, MULTI-DOSE in 1 CARTON (0409-9043-11) / 50 mL in 1 VIAL, MULTI-DOSE November 29, 2005
0409-9045-01 0409-9045 Hospira, Inc. 10 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE in 1 CARTON (0409-9045-01) / 10 mL in 1 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE (0409-9045-11) September 8, 2005
0409-9045-17 0409-9045 Hospira, Inc. 25 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE in 1 TRAY (0409-9045-17) / 30 mL in 1 VIAL, SINGLE-DOSE (0409-9045-16) March 21, 2011
0409-9046-01 0409-9046 Hospira, Inc. 25 CARTON in 1 BOX (0409-9046-01) / 1 VIAL, MULTI-DOSE in 1 CARTON (0409-9046-11) / 50 mL in 1 VIAL, MULTI-DOSE July 26, 2005
0404-9828 0404-9828 Henry Schein, Inc. — January 9, 2022
0409-9042 0409-9042 Hospira, Inc. — June 15, 2005
0409-9043 0409-9043 Hospira, Inc. — November 29, 2005
0409-9045 0409-9045 Hospira, Inc. — May 18, 2005
0409-9046 0409-9046 Hospira, Inc. — July 26, 2005

Sources for this page

Every dataset that contributed a fact to this page.
Dataset Agency Used for
NDC Directory FDA Identity, ingredients, strengths, forms, routes, labelers, packages
Drugs@FDA FDA Application, sponsor, submissions, review documents, marketing status
Drug Labeling FDA / NLM Prescribing information reproduced above
FAERS FDA Adverse event report counts
Drug Shortages FDA Supply availability

Generated September 25, 2026 · 12 sections on this page.