Drug Guide
Edaravone
Classification
Therapeutic: Neuroprotective agent
Pharmacological: Free radical scavenger
FDA Approved Indications
- Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)
Mechanism of Action
Edaravone acts as a free radical scavenger, reducing oxidative stress and neuronal damage in neurodegenerative conditions such as ALS.
Dosage and Administration
Adult: 60 mg intravenously over 60 minutes once daily for 14 days, then every other day (alternating days) thereafter.
Pediatric: Not approved for pediatric use.
Geriatric: Dosage adjustments not specified; assess renal and hepatic function.
Renal Impairment: Use with caution; no specific dosage adjustment provided.
Hepatic Impairment: Use with caution; no specific dosage adjustment provided.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption: Not applicable (administered IV).
Distribution: Distributes widely; crosses blood-brain barrier.
Metabolism: Metabolized primarily by conjugation pathways.
Excretion: Excreted mainly unchanged in urine.
Half Life: Approximately 4.5 to 6 hours.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to edaravone or any component of the formulation.
Precautions
- Monitor for allergic reactions, renal function, and hepatic function.
- Assess for hypersensitivity reactions during infusion.
Adverse Reactions - Common
- Rash (Unknown)
- Pruritus (Unknown)
- Burning or stinging sensation at infusion site (Unknown)
Adverse Reactions - Serious
- Anaphylaxis (Rare)
- Hepatic enzyme elevation (Rare)
- Renal function impairment (Rare)
Drug-Drug Interactions
- No significant interactions reported.
Drug-Food Interactions
- No known food interactions.
Drug-Herb Interactions
- Data not available.
Nursing Implications
Assessment: Monitor neurological status, hepatic enzymes, renal function, and signs of allergic reactions.
Diagnoses:
- Risk for allergic reactions
Implementation: Administer IV infusion as prescribed, monitor infusion site and patient response.
Evaluation: Assess for improvement in ALS symptoms, monitor liver and kidney function regularly.
Patient/Family Teaching
- Report any allergic reactions or side effects immediately.
- Do not stop therapy abruptly without medical advice.
- Maintain regular follow-up appointments for monitoring.
Special Considerations
Black Box Warnings:
- None specified.
Genetic Factors: No specific genetic considerations noted.
Lab Test Interference: Possible changes in hepatic function tests, renal function tests.
Overdose Management
Signs/Symptoms: Potential hypersensitivity reactions, hypotension.
Treatment: Supportive care, emergency treatment for hypersensitivity reactions, no specific antidote.
Storage and Handling
Storage: Store at 2-8°C (36-46°F); protect from light.
Stability: Stable under recommended storage conditions.