See Supplemental Patient Information
- Meningitis may occur because of inadvertent contamination of the microinfusion device and other means such as CSF seeding resulting from hematogenous or direct spread from an infected pump pocket or catheter tract
- Ziconotide is not an opiate. It does not potentiate opiate-induced respiratory depression. It cannot prevent or relieve opiate withdrawal symptoms. To prevent opiate withdrawal syndrome, taper gradually to discontinue. Ensure the opiate IT infusion is tapered gradually over a few weeks and replaced with a pharmacologically equivalent dose of oral opiate
- Monitor patient for neuromuscular symptoms (eg, myalgia, myasthenia, muscle cramps) or reduction in physical activity
- Patients may become unresponsive or stuporous while receiving therapy with ziconotide. Discontinue therapy if such reactions occur
- Elevation of serum creatinine kinase may occur. Monitor serum creatine kinase q2 wks x 1 month, then qmo
- Monitor for cognitive impairment, hallucinations, changes of mood or consciousness, symptoms of depression, or symptoms of meningitis
Cautions: Use cautiously in
- History of suicidal ideation
- Psychiatric disorder
- CNS depressant use
- Elderly patients
Supplemental Patient Information
- Advise care giver to immediately contact the physician if there is a change in mental status, or change in mood/perception/behavior of the patient or if symptoms of depression or suicidal ideation occur
- Caution patients against engaging in activities requiring mental alertness or motor co-ordination such as operating machinery or driving a vehicle
Pregnancy Category:C
Breastfeeding: Safety unknown, use not recommended
