Generic name: isoproterenol injection [ eye-so-proe-TER-e-nole ]
Brand names: Isuprel Mistometer, Isuprel HCl, Medihaler-Iso
Dosage form: injectable solution (0.2 mg/mL)
Drug classes: Adrenergic bronchodilators, Catecholamines

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Mar 5, 2024. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is isoproterenol?

Isoproterenol is used in the treatment of heart block, heart failure, shock, and cardiac arrest.

Isoproterenol is also used to treat bronchospasm that may occur while you are under anesthesia.

Isoproterenol is sometimes used together with other medicines.

Isoproterenol may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Isoproterenol side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Tell your caregivers right away if you have:

• pounding heartbeats or fluttering in your chest;

• chest pain;

• severe headache, pounding in your neck or ears;

• pain when you breathe, shortness of breath, cough;

• pale skin, cold and clammy skin, anxiety; or

• a light-headed feeling, like you might pass out.

Common side effects of isoproterenol injection may include:

• headache, dizziness, nervousness;

• nausea;

• blurred vision;

• tremors; or

• sweating, flushing (sudden warmth, redness, or tingly feeling).

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Related/similar drugs

methylprednisolone, dexamethasone, hydrocortisone, epinephrine, Medrol, Decadron, atropine

Warnings

In an emergency, you may not be able to tell caregivers about your health conditions. Make sure any doctor caring for you afterward knows you received isoproterenol injection.

Before taking this medicine

You may not be treated with isoproterenol if you have:

• heart problems caused by using too much digoxin (digitalis);

• chest pain (angina); or

• certain heart rhythm disorders.

If possible before you receive isoproterenol, tell your doctor about all your medical conditions or allergies.

In an emergency, you may not be able to tell caregivers if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Make sure any doctor caring for your pregnancy or your baby knows you received this medicine.

How is isoproterenol given?

Isoproterenol is injected under the skin or into a muscle, or given as an infusion into a vein. A healthcare provider will give you this injection.

Your breathing, blood pressure, oxygen levels, kidney function, and other vital signs will be watched closely.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Because you will receive isoproterenol in a clinical setting, you are not likely to miss a dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Since isoproterenol injection is given by a healthcare professional in a medical setting, an overdose is unlikely to occur. If an overdose does occur, you may have chest pain, fast or pounding heartbeats, and you may feel light-headed.

What should I avoid after receiving isoproterenol?

Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.

What other drugs will affect isoproterenol?

Other drugs may affect isoproterenol, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell your doctor about all your current medicines and any medicine you start or stop using.

Further information

• Your doctor can provide more information about isoproterenol.

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer

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