Sodium Nitroprusside Side Effects

Sodium nitroprusside, also known as the brand name Nitropress, is a drug primarily prescribed for immediate reduction of very high blood pressure. It also is used to treat severe symptoms of congestive heart failure and to control bleeding during surgery. Sodium nitroprusside is administered in intravenous (IV) form by a nurse or other health care provider. Many side effects are possible; some are serious.

Low Blood Pressure

• Sodium nitroprusside can result in dramatic drops in blood pressure, and patients are closely monitored after the drug is administered because very low blood pressure can be dangerous. Lightheadedness, dizziness and fainting can be signs of abnormally low blood pressure.

Cyanide

• Additionally, as the body breaks down sodium nitroprusside, the process releases cyanide. This can be toxic and even fatal if it happens too rapidly, or if high doses of nitroprusside are necessary over a number of days. The health care provider will discontinue administering a high dose of nitroprusside after 10 minutes of therapy even if blood pressure has not been effectively reduced.

Other Serious Effects

• Many other serious sodium nitroprusside side effects are possible but uncommon, and may need prompt medical attention. They include rapid breathing or difficulty breathing, rapid or slow heartbeat, chest pain, severe abdominal pain, severe constipation, severe headache, unusual bleeding or bruising, vomiting, muscle weakness, muscle spasms and seizures.

Allergic Reaction

• Rarely, patients experience an allergic reaction to sodium nitroprusside. Signs include itching, a rash or hives, difficulty breathing and chest tightness. There also may be swelling in the face, mouth, throat or hands, or tingling or itchy sensations in the mouth or throat.

Less Serious Effects

• Other less serious side effects can result from a fast drop in blood pressure. These include abdominal pain, nausea, dizziness, headache, heart palpitations, muscle twitching and restlessness. Some people experience dry skin, hair loss, intolerance to cold, sweating and flushing in the face, neck, upper chest or arms. Patients also may experience a reaction at the injection site with redness, swelling, pain or itching.