Drug Notes

Nalbuphine (By injection)

Nalbuphine (NAL-bue-feen)

Treats various types of severe pain. Also used during anesthesia. This medicine is a narcotic analgesic (pain medicine).

Brand Name(s):

Amerinet Choice Nalbuphine Hydrochloride, Nalbuphine HCl Novaplus

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Injectable

• Your doctor will prescribe your exact dose and tell you how often it should be given. This medicine is given as a shot under your skin, into a muscle, or into a vein.
• A nurse or other health provider will give you this medicine.
• You may be taught how to give your medicine at home. Make sure you understand all instructions before giving yourself an injection. Do not use more medicine or use it more often than your doctor tells you to.
• Look at the medicine before injecting it. If it has changed color, or has particles in it, do not use it. Call your doctor or pharmacist.
• It may take as long as 15 minutes after injection for you to feel any pain relief. Do not use more medicine than your doctor has ordered.

If a dose is missed:

• Use your medicine as soon as possible unless it is almost time for your next dose.
• Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next regular dose.
• Do not take two doses at the same time.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

• Store at room temperature in a closed container, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Store any unused medicine in the carton.
• Keep this and all medicine out of the reach of children.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are also using alcohol, other pain killers, or other medicines that make you sleepy such as sleeping pills, cold and allergy medicine, or medicines for depression or nervousness.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before taking this medicine.
• Make sure your doctor knows if you have asthma, bronchitis, COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), kidney disease, or liver disease.
• Tell your doctor if you have a history of depression, mental disorder, or addiction to drugs or alcohol.
• This medicine may make you drowsy or dizzy. Avoid driving a car or using machinery after using a dose of this medicine.
• This medicine is a very strong pain killer, and may be habit-forming. Do not use more than your doctor ordered, or use it for longer periods of time than prescribed.
• Talk to your doctor before you stop using this medicine. You may need to use smaller and smaller doses before stopping completely.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Fainting
• Slow, fast, or irregular heartbeat
• Slowed breathing or shortness of breath

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Feeling sweaty or clammy
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Nausea or vomiting
• Sleepiness

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088

Last Updated: 1/27/2017