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EXPAREL

bupivacaine · Injection, Suspension, Liposomal

Prescription NDA TE AP RLD 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
EXPAREL
Generic name
bupivacaine
Dosage form
Injection, Suspension, Liposomal
Route
Infiltration
Marketing category
NDA · NDA
Labeler
Pacira Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
Product type
Human Prescription Drug
DEA schedule
Not scheduled
Active ingredients
1
NDC product codes
2
Packages
4
Data completeness
77% of corroborating sources present

Active ingredients

Source: NDC Directory
Active ingredients and strengths as listed in the NDC Directory.
Ingredient Strength RxCUI Monograph
Bupivacaine 13.3 mg/mL 2560306 View

Forms, strengths and routes

Source: NDC Directory
Dosage form
Injection, Suspension, Liposomal
Route of administration
Infiltration
Presentations
6

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
Amide Local Anesthetic [EPC] EPC All 47 members
Amides [CS] CS All 47 members
Local Anesthesia [PE] PE All 53 members

Regulatory status

Source: Drugs@FDANDC Directory
Application number
022496
Application type
NDA · New Drug Application
Approval date
October 28, 2011
Sponsor
PACIRA PHARMS INC
Products on application
2
Submissions recorded
23
Products approved under application 022496.
Product Trade name Form Strength Ingredient Status TE Flags
022496-001 EXPAREL INJECTABLE, LIPOSOMAL BUPIVACAINE Prescription AP RLD RS
022496-002 EXPAREL INJECTABLE, LIPOSOMAL BUPIVACAINE Prescription AP RLD RS

Therapeutic equivalence

Source: Orange Book
TE code
AP
Reference Listed Drug
Yes
Reference Standard
Yes

What this rating means: Therapeutically equivalent — bioequivalence demonstrated (parenteral aqueous solutions)

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

Patents and exclusivity

Source: Orange Book
Patent listings submitted under 21 U.S.C. 355(b)(1) and (c)(2).
Patent Expires Product Substance Use code Submitted
11452691 January 22, 2041 001 No U-3439 October 4, 2022
11819575 January 22, 2041 001 No U-3250 December 6, 2023
11033495 January 22, 2041 001 No U-3182 July 30, 2021
12144890 January 22, 2041 001 No U-4033 November 20, 2024
11179336 January 22, 2041 001 No U-3250 November 30, 2021
11426348 January 22, 2041 001 No U-3380 September 2, 2022
12296047 January 22, 2041 001 No U-4184 May 20, 2025
11357727 January 22, 2041 001 No U-3380 June 16, 2022
11311486 January 22, 2041 001 No U-3250 April 27, 2022
11278494 January 22, 2041 001 No U-3250 April 4, 2022
11304904 January 22, 2041 001 No U-3346 April 21, 2022
11819574 January 22, 2041 001 No U-3250 December 6, 2023
11925706 January 22, 2041 001 No U-3380 March 15, 2024
12151024 January 22, 2041 001 No U-4037 November 26, 2024
11819575 January 22, 2041 002 No U-3250 December 6, 2023
11033495 January 22, 2041 002 No U-3182 July 30, 2021
12144890 January 22, 2041 002 No U-4033 November 20, 2024
11179336 January 22, 2041 002 No U-3250 November 30, 2021
11426348 January 22, 2041 002 No U-3380 September 2, 2022
12296047 January 22, 2041 002 No U-4184 May 20, 2025
11452691 January 22, 2041 002 No U-3439 October 4, 2022
11357727 January 22, 2041 002 No U-3380 June 16, 2022
11311486 January 22, 2041 002 No U-3250 April 27, 2022
11278494 January 22, 2041 002 No U-3250 April 4, 2022
11304904 January 22, 2041 002 No U-3346 April 21, 2022
11819574 January 22, 2041 002 No U-3250 December 6, 2023
11925706 January 22, 2041 002 No U-3380 March 15, 2024
12151024 January 22, 2041 002 No U-4037 November 26, 2024
11931459 March 17, 2042 001 No U-3839 March 20, 2024
11931459 March 17, 2042 001 No U-3840 March 20, 2024
11931459 March 17, 2042 002 No U-3840 March 20, 2024
11931459 March 17, 2042 002 No U-3839 March 20, 2024
12226610 February 2, 2043 001 No U-4148 March 14, 2025
12226610 February 2, 2043 001 No U-4149 March 14, 2025
12226610 February 2, 2043 001 No U-4150 March 14, 2025
11918565 February 2, 2043 001 No U-3841 March 20, 2024
12226610 February 2, 2043 002 No U-4148 March 14, 2025
12226610 February 2, 2043 002 No U-4149 March 14, 2025
12226610 February 2, 2043 002 No U-4150 March 14, 2025
11918565 February 2, 2043 002 No U-3841 March 20, 2024
12318483 July 2, 2044 001 No U-4152 June 11, 2025
12370142 July 2, 2044 001 No U-4152 August 7, 2025
12251468 July 2, 2044 001 No U-4152 March 21, 2025
12156940 July 2, 2044 001 No December 3, 2024
12318483 July 2, 2044 002 No U-4152 June 11, 2025
12370142 July 2, 2044 002 No U-4152 August 7, 2025
12251468 July 2, 2044 002 No U-4152 March 21, 2025
12156940 July 2, 2044 002 No December 3, 2024
Regulatory exclusivity periods.
Code Expires Product
I-929 November 9, 2026 001
I-929 November 9, 2026 002

Approval history

Source: Drugs@FDA
Most recent submissions on application 022496.
Type No. Action Status Date Review
Supplement 51 Labeling Approved November 28, 2023 Standard
Supplement 44 Efficacy Approved November 9, 2023 Standard
Supplement 37 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved April 2, 2021 N/A
Supplement 35 Efficacy Approved March 22, 2021 Standard
Supplement 36 Labeling Approved January 6, 2021 Standard
Supplement 30 Labeling Approved November 2, 2018 Standard
Supplement 9 Efficacy Approved April 6, 2018 Standard
Supplement 23 Labeling Approved March 8, 2017 Standard
Supplement 20 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved June 10, 2016 Standard
Supplement 18 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved April 15, 2016 Standard
Supplement 17 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved April 5, 2016 Standard
Supplement 19 Labeling Approved December 14, 2015 Standard
Supplement 16 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved October 8, 2015 Standard
Supplement 15 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved September 11, 2015 Standard
Supplement 14 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved July 27, 2015 Standard
Supplement 12 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved May 27, 2015 Standard
Supplement 10 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved December 15, 2014 Standard
Supplement 5 Labeling Approved December 5, 2014 Standard
Supplement 8 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved August 13, 2014 Standard
Supplement 7 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved June 5, 2014 Standard
Supplement 6 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved March 28, 2014 Standard
Supplement 4 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved July 10, 2013 Standard
Original application 1 Type 3 - New Dosage Form Approved October 28, 2011 Standard

Review documents

  • 0 · Supplement · November 5, 2024
  • 0 · Supplement · November 29, 2023
  • 0 · Supplement · November 29, 2023
  • 0 · Supplement · November 14, 2023
  • 0 · Supplement · November 13, 2023
  • 0 · Supplement · March 31, 2022
  • 0 · Supplement · March 24, 2021
  • 0 · Supplement · March 24, 2021
  • 0 · Supplement · January 7, 2021
  • 0 · Supplement · November 9, 2018
  • 0 · Supplement · November 5, 2018
  • 0 · Supplement · April 6, 2018
  • 0 · Supplement · December 14, 2015
  • 0 · Supplement · December 14, 2015
  • 0 · Supplement · December 16, 2014
  • 0 · Supplement · December 9, 2014
  • 0 · Original application · June 4, 2012
  • 0 · Original application · November 1, 2011
  • 0 · Original application · October 31, 2011

Prescribing information

Source: openFDA Drug Labeling

Reproduced verbatim from the Structured Product Labeling submitted to the FDA (effective 20251212). This is the manufacturer's labelling text, not a summary and not advice.

HUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUG · 20251212

Recent Major Changes

openFDA Drug Labeling

Indications and Usage ( 1 ) 11/ 2023 Dosage and Administration ( 2.2 ) 11/2023

Indications and Usage

openFDA Drug Labeling

1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE EXPAREL is indicated to produce postsurgical: Local analgesia via infiltration in patients aged 6 years and older Regional analgesia via an interscalene brachial plexus nerve block in adults Regional analgesia via a sciatic nerve block in the popliteal fossa in adults Regional analgesia via an adductor canal block in adults EXPAREL contains bupivacaine, an amide local anesthetic, and is indicated to produce postsurgical: Local analgesia via infiltration in patients aged 6 years and older ( 1 ). Regional analgesia via an interscalene brachial plexus nerve block in adults ( 1 ). Regional analgesia via a sciatic nerve block in the popliteal fossa in adults ( 1 ). Regional analgesia via an adductor canal block in adults ( 1 ). Limitations of Use The safety and effectiveness of EXPAREL have not been established to produce postsurgical regional analgesia via other nerve blocks besides an interscalene brachial plexus nerve block, a sciatic nerve block in the popliteal fossa, or an adductor canal block. Limitations of Use The safety and effectiveness of EXPAREL have not been established to produce postsurgical regional analgesia via other nerve blocks besides an interscalene brachial plexus nerve block, a sciatic nerve block in the popliteal fossa, or an adductor canal block.

Dosage and Administration

openFDA Drug Labeling

2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION EXPAREL is for single administration only ( 2.1 ). EXPAREL is not substitutable with other bupivacaine products even if the strength is the same. Therefore, it is not possible to convert a dose from other bupivacaine products to an EXPAREL dose and vice versa ( 2.1 , 2.5 ). Do not dilute EXPAREL with water or other hypotonic solutions ( 2.1 ). The recommended dose of EXPAREL for: Local infiltration in adults is up to a maximum dose of 266 mg. See Full Prescribing Information for guidance on dose selection ( 2.2 ). Local infiltration in pediatric patients aged 6 to less than 17 years is 4 mg/kg, up to a maximum of 266 mg ( 2.2 ). Interscalene brachial plexus nerve block in adults is 133 mg ( 2.3 ). Sciatic nerve block in the popliteal fossa in adults is 133 mg ( 2.3 ). Adductor canal block in adults is 133 mg (10 mL) admixed with 50 mg (10 mL) 0.5% bupivacaine HCl, for a total volume of 20 mL ( 2.3 ). For all these nerve blocks, administer additional analgesics, which may include other immediate-release local anesthetics, as appropriate ( 2.3 ). See Full Prescribing Information for important preparation and administration instructions and compatibility considerations ( 2.4 , 2.5 ). 2.1 Important Dose, Preparation, and Administration Instructions EXPAREL is for single administration only. EXPAREL is not substitutable with other bupivacaine products even if the strength is the same. Therefore, it is not possible to convert a dose from other bupivacaine products to an EXPAREL dose and vice versa. Do not dilute EXPAREL with water or other hypotonic agents, as it will result in disruption of the liposomal particles. Do not administer EXPAREL if it is suspected that the vial has been frozen or exposed to high temperature (greater than 40°C or 104°F) for an extended period. Inspect EXPAREL visually for particulate matter and discoloration prior to administration, whenever solution and container permit. Do not administer EXPAREL if the product is discolored. Do not heat or autoclave before use. Do not filter during administration. 2.2 Recommended Dose for Local Analgesia via Infiltration Local Analgesia via Infiltration in Adults The recommended dose of EXPAREL for local infiltration in adults is up to a maximum dose of 266 mg, and is based on the following factors: Size of the surgical site Volume required to cover the area Individual patient factors that may impact the safety of an amide local anesthetic As general guidance in selecting the proper EXPAREL dose for local infiltration in adults, two examples are provided [see Clinical Studies (14.2) ]. In adult patients undergoing: Bunionectomy, a total of 106 mg (8 mL) of EXPAREL was administered, with 7 mL infiltrated into the tissues surrounding the osteotomy, and 1 mL infiltrated into the subcutaneous tissue. Hemorrhoidectomy, a total of 266 mg (20 mL) of EXPAREL was diluted with 10 mL of saline, for a total of 30 mL, divided into six 5 mL aliquots, injected by visualizing the anal sphincter as a clock face and slowly infiltrating one aliquot to each of the even numbers to produce a field block. Local Analgesia via Infiltration in Pediatric Patients The recommended dose of EXPAREL for one-time infiltration in pediatric patients, aged 6 to less than 17 years, is 4 mg/kg (up to a maximum of 266 mg), and is based upon two studies of pediatric patients undergoing either spine surgery or cardiac surgery [see Use in Specific Populations (8.4) ] . 2.3 Recommended Dose for Regional Analgesia The maximum recommended dose of EXPAREL via perineural use for interscalene brachial plexus nerve block, sciatic nerve block in the popliteal fossa, and adductor canal block is 133 mg. For all these nerve blocks, administer additional analgesics, which may include other immediate-release local anesthetics, as appropriate (for example, Mayo field block for bunionectomy, infiltration between the popliteal artery and capsule of the knee (IPACK) block for total knee arthroplasty …

Dosage Forms and Strengths

openFDA Drug Labeling

3 DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS EXPAREL (bupivacaine liposome injectable suspension) is a white to off-white, milky aqueous suspension that is available in the following vial sizes: 1.3% (266 mg/20 mL) (13.3 mg/mL) single-dose vial 1.3% (133 mg/10 mL) (13.3 mg/mL) single-dose vial Injectable suspension: 1.3% (266 mg/20 mL) (13.3 mg/mL) in a single-dose vial ( 3 ) 1.3% (133 mg/10 mL) (13.3 mg/mL) in a single-dose vial ( 3 )

Contraindications

openFDA Drug Labeling

4 CONTRAINDICATIONS EXPAREL is contraindicated in obstetrical paracervical block anesthesia [see Use in Specific Populations (8.1) ]. While EXPAREL has not been tested with this technique, the use of bupivacaine HCl with this technique has resulted in fetal bradycardia and death. EXPAREL is contraindicated in obstetrical paracervical block anesthesia ( 4 ).

Warnings and Cautions

openFDA Drug Labeling

5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS Monitor cardiovascular status, neurological status, and vital signs during and after injection of EXPAREL ( 5.1 ). Because amide-type local anesthetics, such as bupivacaine, are metabolized by the liver, use EXPAREL cautiously in patients with hepatic disease. Patients with severe hepatic disease, because of their inability to metabolize local anesthetics normally, are at a greater risk of developing toxic plasma concentrations ( 5.1 ). Methemoglobinemia: Cases of methemoglobinemia have been reported in association with local anesthetic use ( 5.1 ). Avoid additional use of local anesthetics within 96 hours following administration of EXPAREL ( 5.2 ). 5.1 Warnings and Precautions for Bupivacaine-Containing Products The safety and effectiveness of EXPAREL, other bupivacaine products, and other amide-containing products depend on proper dosage, correct technique, adequate precautions, and readiness for emergencies. As there is a potential risk of severe life-threatening adverse reactions associated with the administration of bupivacaine, any bupivacaine-containing product should be administered in a setting where trained personnel and equipment are available to promptly treat patients who show evidence of neurological or cardiac toxicity [see Overdosage (10) ]. 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 and other amide-containing products. Restlessness, anxiety, incoherent speech, lightheadedness, numbness and tingling of the mouth and lips, metallic taste, tinnitus, dizziness, blurred vision, tremors, twitching, depression, or drowsiness may be early warning signs of central nervous system toxicity. EXPAREL, other bupivacaine products, and other amide-containing products should also be used with caution in patients with impaired cardiovascular function because they may be less able to compensate for functional changes associated with the prolongation of AV conduction produced by these drugs. Injection of multiple doses of EXPAREL, other bupivacaine products, and other amide-containing products may cause significant increases in plasma concentrations with each repeated dose due to slow accumulation of the drug or its metabolites, or to slow metabolic degradation. Tolerance to elevated blood concentrations varies with the status of the patient. Because amide-type local anesthetics, such as bupivacaine, are metabolized by the liver, these drugs should be used cautiously in patients with hepatic disease. Patients with severe hepatic disease, because of their inability to metabolize local anesthetics normally, are at a greater risk of developing toxic plasma concentrations. Central Nervous System Reactions The incidences of adverse neurologic reactions associated with the use of local anesthetics may be related to the total dose of local anesthetic administered and are also dependent upon the particular drug used, the route of administration, and the physical status of the patient. Many of these effects may be related to local anesthetic techniques, with or without a contribution from the drug. Neurologic effects following infiltration of soft tissue may include persistent anesthesia, paresthesia, weakness, and paralysis, all of which may have slow, incomplete, or no recovery. Central nervous system reactions are characterized by excitation and/or depression. Restlessness, anxiety, dizziness, tinnitus, blurred vision, or tremors may occur, possibly proceeding to convulsions. However, excitement may be transient or absent, with depression being the first manifestation of an adverse reaction. This may quickly be followed by drowsiness merging into unconsciousness and respiratory arrest. Other central nervous system effects may be nausea, vomiting, chills, and constriction of the pupils. The incidence of convulsions associated with the use of local anesthetics …

Adverse Reactions

openFDA Drug Labeling

6 ADVERSE REACTIONS The following serious adverse reactions have been associated with bupivacaine hydrochloride in clinical trials and are described in greater detail in other sections of the labeling: Central Nervous System Reactions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] Cardiovascular System Reactions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] Allergic Reactions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] Chondrolysis [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] Methemoglobinemia [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] Accidental intravascular injection [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] Adverse reactions reported with an incidence greater than or equal to 10% following EXPAREL administration via: Infiltration in adults were nausea, constipation, and vomiting ( 6.1 ). Nerve block in adults were nausea, pyrexia, headache, and constipation ( 6.1 ). Infiltration in pediatric patients six to less than 17 years of age were nausea, vomiting, constipation, hypotension, anemia, muscle twitching, blurred vision, pruritus, and tachycardia ( 6.1 ). To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Pacira Pharmaceuticals, Inc. at 1-855-RX-EXPAREL (1-855-793-9727) or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch. 6.1 Clinical Trials Experience Because clinical studies are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical studies of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice. Adverse Reactions Reported in All Local Infiltration Clinical Studies in Adults The safety of EXPAREL (local administration into the surgical site) was evaluated in 10 randomized, double-blind, clinical studies (including Studies 1 and 2 [see Clinical Studies (14.2) ] ) that included 823 adult patients who had various surgical procedures. Patients were administered an EXPAREL dose ranging from 66 to 532 mg (two times the maximum recommended dose of 266 mg). In these studies, following EXPAREL administration, the: Most common adverse reactions (incidence greater than or equal to 10%) were nausea, constipation, and vomiting. Common adverse reactions (incidence greater than or equal to 2% to less than 10%) were pyrexia, dizziness, peripheral edema, anemia, hypotension, pruritus, tachycardia, headache, insomnia, postoperative anemia, muscle spasms, hemorrhagic anemia, back pain, somnolence, and procedural pain. Less common adverse reactions (incidence less than 2%) were chills, erythema, bradycardia, anxiety, urinary retention, pain, edema, tremor, postural dizziness, paresthesia, syncope, incision site edema, procedural hypertension, procedural hypotension, procedural nausea, muscular weakness, neck pain, generalized pruritus, pruritic rash, hyperhidrosis, cold sweat, urticaria, palpitations, sinus bradycardia, supraventricular extrasystoles, ventricular extrasystoles, ventricular tachycardia, hypertension, pallor, anxiety, confusional state, depression, agitation, restlessness, hypoxia, laryngospasm, apnea, respiratory depression, respiratory failure, increased body temperature, increased blood pressure (BP), decreased BP, decreased oxygen saturation, urinary incontinence, blurred vision, tinnitus, drug hypersensitivity, and hypersensitivity. Neurological and Cardiac Adverse Reactions In the EXPAREL surgical site infiltration studies, following EXPAREL administration adverse reactions with an incidence greater than or equal to 1% in the: Nervous System Disorders system organ class were dizziness (6.2%), headache (3.8%), somnolence (2.1%), hypoesthesia (1.5%), and lethargy (1.3%). Cardiac Disorders system organ class were tachycardia (3.9%) and bradycardia (1.6%). Adverse Reactions Reported in All Local Infiltration Placebo-Controlled Trials in Adults Adverse reactions with an incidence greater than or equal to 2% reported by adult patients in clinical studies who underwent a bunionectomy (Study 1) or hemorrhoidectomy (Study 2) [see Clinical Studies (14.2) ] t …

Drug Interactions

openFDA Drug Labeling

7 DRUG INTERACTIONS The toxic effects of local anesthetics are additive and concomitant use should be used with caution including monitoring for neurologic and cardiovascular effects related to local anesthetic systemic toxicity [see Dosage and Administration (2.2) , Warnings and Precautions (5.1) , and Overdosage (10) ] . Avoid additional use of local anesthetics within 96 hours following administration of EXPAREL. Patients who are administered local anesthetics, including EXPAREL, may be at increased risk of developing methemoglobinemia when concurrently exposed to the following drugs, which could include other local anesthetics: Class Examples Nitrates/Nitrites nitric oxide, nitroglycerin, nitroprusside, nitrous oxide Local anesthetics articaine, benzocaine, bupivacaine, lidocaine, mepivacaine, prilocaine, procaine, ropivacaine, tetracaine Antineoplastic agents cyclophosphamide, flutamide, hydroxyurea, ifosfamide, rasburicase Antibiotics dapsone, nitrofurantoin, para-aminosalicylic acid, sulfonamides Antimalarials chloroquine, primaquine Anticonvulsants Phenobarbital, phenytoin, sodium valproate Other drugs acetaminophen, metoclopramide, quinine, sulfasalazine Lidocaine or other non-bupivacaine local anesthetics : Do not admix with EXPAREL. EXPAREL may be administered at least 20 minutes or more following local administration of lidocaine ( 7 ). Bupivacaine HCl : Do not exceed a milligram dose of bupivacaine HCl solution to EXPAREL of 1:2 when admixing, as this may impact the pharmacokinetics and/or physicochemical properties of the drugs ( 7 ). Bupivacaine Bupivacaine HCl administered together with EXPAREL may impact the pharmacokinetic and/or physicochemical properties of EXPAREL, and this effect is concentration dependent. Therefore, bupivacaine HCl and EXPAREL may be administered simultaneously in the same syringe, and bupivacaine HCl may be injected immediately before EXPAREL as long as the ratio of the milligram dose of bupivacaine HCl solution to EXPAREL does not exceed 1:2. Non-Bupivacaine Local Anesthetics EXPAREL should not be admixed with local anesthetics other than bupivacaine. Non-bupivacaine based local anesthetics, including lidocaine, may cause an immediate release of bupivacaine from EXPAREL if administered together locally. The administration of EXPAREL may follow the administration of lidocaine after a delay of 20 minutes or more. There are no data to support administration of other local anesthetics prior to administration of EXPAREL. Other than bupivacaine as noted above, EXPAREL should not be admixed with other drugs prior to administration. Water and Hypotonic Agents Do not dilute EXPAREL with water or other hypotonic agents, as it will result in disruption of the liposomal particles.

Use in Specific Populations

openFDA Drug Labeling

8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS Pregnancy : May cause fetal harm ( 8.1 ). 8.1 Pregnancy Risk Summary There are no studies conducted with EXPAREL in pregnant women. In animal reproduction studies, embryo-fetal deaths were observed with subcutaneous administration of bupivacaine to rabbits during organogenesis at a dose equivalent to 1.6 times the maximum recommended human dose (MRHD) of 266 mg. Subcutaneous administration of bupivacaine to rats from implantation through weaning produced decreased pup survival at a dose equivalent to 1.5 times the MRHD [see Data ] . Based on animal data, advise pregnant women of the potential risks to a fetus. The background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population is unknown. However, the background risk in the U.S. general population of major birth defects is 2-4% and of miscarriage is 15-20% of clinically recognized pregnancies. Clinical Considerations Labor or Delivery Bupivacaine is contraindicated for obstetrical paracervical block anesthesia. While EXPAREL has not been studied with this technique, the use of bupivacaine for obstetrical paracervical block anesthesia has resulted in fetal bradycardia and death. Bupivacaine can 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 central nervous system, peripheral vascular tone, and cardiac function. Data Animal Data Bupivacaine hydrochloride was administered subcutaneously to rats and rabbits during the period of organogenesis (implantation to closure of the hard plate). Rat doses were 4.4, 13.3, and 40 mg/kg/day (equivalent to 0.2, 0.5 and 1.5 times the MRHD, respectively, based on the BSA comparisons and a 60 kg human weight) and rabbit doses were 1.3, 5.8, and 22.2 mg/kg/day (equivalent to 0.1, 0.4 and 1.6 times the MRHD, respectively, based on the BSA comparisons and a 60 kg human weight). No embryo-fetal effects were observed in rats at the doses tested with the high dose causing increased maternal lethality. An increase in embryo-fetal deaths was observed in rabbits at the high dose in the absence of maternal toxicity. Decreased pup survival was noted at 1.5 times the MRHD in a rat pre- and post-natal development study when pregnant animals were administered subcutaneous doses of 4.4, 13.3, and 40 mg/kg/day bupivacaine hydrochloride (equivalent to 0.2, 0.5 and 1.5 times the MRHD, respectively, based on the BSA comparisons and a 60 kg human weight) from implantation through weaning (during pregnancy and lactation). 8.2 Lactation Risk Summary Limited published literature reports that bupivacaine and its metabolite, pipecoloxylidide, are present in human milk at low levels. There is no available information on effects of the drug in the breastfed infant or effects of the drug on milk production. The developmental and health benefits of breastfeeding should be considered along with the mother's clinical need for EXPAREL and any potential adverse effects on the breastfed infant from EXPAREL or from the underlying maternal condition. 8.4 Pediatric Use The safety and effectiveness of EXPAREL to produce postsurgical local analgesia via infiltration have been established in pediatric patients aged 6 years and older. Use of EXPAREL for this indication is supported by evidence from adequate and well-controlled studies in adults, and pharmacokinetic (PK) and safety data in pediatric patients aged 6 years and older from Studies Peds-1 and Peds-2 [see Adverse Reactions (6.1) , Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ]. Study Peds-1 was a multicenter, randomized, open-label, two-part study (NCT03682302) to evaluate the PK and safety of EXPAREL for local inf …

Mechanism of Action

openFDA Drug Labeling

12.1 Mechanism of Action Local anesthetics block 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.

Description

openFDA Drug Labeling

11 DESCRIPTION EXPAREL (bupivacaine liposome injectable suspension) is a sterile, non-pyrogenic white to off-white preservative-free aqueous suspension consisting of multivesicular liposomes containing bupivacaine. Bupivacaine is present at a concentration of 13.3 mg/mL. After injection of EXPAREL, bupivacaine is released from the multivesicular liposomes. EXPAREL is for infiltration or perineural use. Active Ingredient Bupivacaine is related chemically and pharmacologically to the amide-type local anesthetics. It is a homologue of mepivacaine and is related chemically to lidocaine. All three of these anesthetics contain an amide linkage between the aromatic nucleus and the amino, or piperidine group. They differ in this respect from the procaine-type local anesthetics, which have an ester linkage. Chemically, bupivacaine is 1-butyl-N-(2,6-dimethylphenyl)-2-piperidinecarboxamide with a molecular weight of 288.4. Bupivacaine has the following structural formula: Chemical Structure EXPAREL The median diameter of the liposome particles in EXPAREL ranges from 24 to 31 μm. The liposomes are suspended in a 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection. Each vial contains bupivacaine at a nominal concentration of 13.3 mg/mL. Inactive ingredients and their nominal concentrations are: cholesterol, 4.7 mg/mL; 1, 2-dipalmitoyl-sn-glycero-3 phospho-rac-(1-glycerol) sodium salt (DPPG), 0.9 mg/mL; tricaprylin, 2.0 mg/mL; 1, 2-dierucoylphosphatidylcholine (DEPC), 8.2 mg/mL; phosphoric acid to adjust pH; and sodium chloride to adjust tonicity. The pH of EXPAREL is in the range of 5.8 to 7.4. Bupivacaine in EXPAREL has different functional properties relative to those of the unencapsulated or nonlipid-associated bupivacaine products. Bupivacaine that is released from EXPAREL has a different pharmacokinetic and systemic profile relative to other bupivacaine products. In addition, the nominal weight percent concentration of bupivacaine in EXPAREL is based on bupivacaine free base rather than bupivacaine HCl (100 mg of bupivacaine HCl contains 88.6 mg of bupivacaine free base) [see Dosage and Administration (2.1) ].

10 OVERDOSAGE Clinical Presentation Acute emergencies from local anesthetics are generally related to high plasma concentrations encountered during therapeutic use of local anesthetics or to unintended intravascular injection of local anesthetic solution [See Warnings and Precautions (5) and Adverse Reactions (6) ] . Signs and symptoms of overdose include CNS symptoms (perioral paresthesia, dizziness, dysarthria, confusion, mental obtundation, sensory and visual disturbances, and eventually convulsions) and cardiovascular effects (that range from hypertension and tachycardia to myocardial depression, hypotension, bradycardia, and asystole). Plasma levels of bupivacaine associated with toxicity can vary. Although concentrations of 2,500 to 4,000 ng/mL have been reported to elicit early subjective CNS symptoms of bupivacaine toxicity, symptoms of toxicity have been reported at levels as low as 800 ng/mL. Management of Local Anesthetic Overdose At the first sign of change, oxygen should be administered. The first step in the management of convulsions, as well as underventilation or apnea, consists of immediate attention to the maintenance of a patent airway and assisted or controlled ventilation with oxygen and a delivery system capable of permitting immediate positive airway pressure by mask. Immediately after the institution of these ventilatory measures, the adequacy of the circulation should be evaluated, keeping in mind that drugs used to treat convulsions sometimes depress the circulation when administered intravenously. Should convulsions persist despite adequate respiratory support, and if the status of the circulation permits, small increments of an ultra-short acting barbiturate (such as thiopental or thiamylal) or a benzodiazepine (such as diazepam) may be administered intravenously. The clinician should be familiar, prior to the use of anesthetics, with these anticonvulsant drugs. Supportive treatment of circulatory depression may require administration of intravenous fluids and, when appropriate, a vasopressor dictated by the clinical situation (such as ephedrine to enhance myocardial contractile force). If not treated immediately, both convulsions and cardiovascular depression can result in hypoxia, acidosis, bradycardia, arrhythmias, and cardiac arrest. If cardiac arrest should occur, standard cardiopulmonary resuscitative measures should be instituted. 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.

How Supplied / Storage and Handling

openFDA Drug Labeling

16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING EXPAREL (bupivacaine liposome injectable suspension) is a white to off-white milky aqueous suspension that is available in the following single-dose vials. 1.3% (266 mg/20 mL) (13.3 mg/mL) single-dose vial, (NDC 65250-266-20) packaged in cartons of 10 (NDC 65250-266-09) and cartons of 4 (NDC 65250-266-04) 1.3% (133 mg/10 mL) (13.3 mg/mL) single-dose vial, (NDC 65250-133-10) packaged in cartons of 10 (NDC-65250-133-09) and cartons of 4 (NDC 65250-133-04) Storage Store EXPAREL vials refrigerated between 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F). EXPAREL may be held at a controlled room temperature of 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F) for up to 30 days in sealed, intact (unopened) vials. Do not re-refrigerate vials. Do not freeze or expose EXPAREL to high temperatures (greater than 40°C or 104°F) for an extended period. Do not administer EXPAREL if it is suspected of having been frozen or exposed to high temperatures. Do not use the vial if the stopper is bulging. Handling See Dosage and Administration (2.1 , 2.4) for important preparation instructions.

Adverse event reports

Source: openFDA FAERS
16,878
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: BUPIVACAINE. 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.

Recalls

Source: FDA Enforcement
Drug recall enforcement reports associated with this product.
Classification Reported Firm Reason Status
Class II December 11, 2019 Pacira Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Sub Potent Drug: Out of Specification (OOS) Terminated

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
65250-133-04 65250-133 Pacira Pharmaceuticals, Inc. 4 VIAL in 1 CARTON (65250-133-04) / 10 mL in 1 VIAL (65250-133-10) September 2, 2016
65250-133-09 65250-133 Pacira Pharmaceuticals, Inc. 10 VIAL in 1 CARTON (65250-133-09) / 10 mL in 1 VIAL (65250-133-10) September 2, 2016
65250-266-04 65250-266 Pacira Pharmaceuticals, Inc. 4 VIAL in 1 CARTON (65250-266-04) / 20 mL in 1 VIAL (65250-266-20) September 28, 2016
65250-266-09 65250-266 Pacira Pharmaceuticals, Inc. 10 VIAL in 1 CARTON (65250-266-09) / 20 mL in 1 VIAL (65250-266-20) March 31, 2017
65250-133 65250-133 Pacira Pharmaceuticals, Inc. — January 1, 2016
65250-266 65250-266 Pacira Pharmaceuticals, Inc. — January 1, 2012

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
Orange Book FDA Therapeutic equivalence codes, reference drug flags, patents, exclusivity
Drug Labeling FDA / NLM Prescribing information reproduced above
FAERS FDA Adverse event report counts
Enforcement FDA Recall records

Generated September 25, 2026 · 13 sections on this page.