Sodium nitroprusside

Sodium nitroprusside

---

Sodium nitroprusside is a potent arteriolar and venous dilator. The half-life of sodium nitroprusside is less than 10 minutes; however, the major metabolite, thiocyanate, is renally excreted and has a half-life of 3 to 7 days.

Toxicity can occur with prolonged administration of sodium nitroprusside, due to accumulation of thiocyanate or cyanide. Usual duration of treatment should not exceed 72 hours, and thiocyanate plasma concentrations should be monitored. Blood pressure should be closely monitored during administration and the dose titrated as necessary to avoid excessive hypotension. Rebound hypertension may follow abrupt withdrawal. The infusion solution is sensitive to light and should be protected with aluminium foil or other opaque material. Sildenafil, tadalafil or vardenafil should not be used concomitantly with sodium nitroprusside, because of the risk of severe hypotension.

Administration of sodium nitroprusside is complex, and product information should be consulted.