Nikem Dosage/Direction for Use

Method of Administration: Nicardipine Hydrochloride Injection should be administered by continuous intravenous infusion only. It should only be administered by specialists in well controlled environments, such as hospitals and intensive care units, with continuous monitoring of blood pressure. The speed of administration must be accurately controlled by the use of an electronic syringe driver or a volumetric pump.
Blood pressure and heart rate must be monitored at least every 5 minutes during the infusion, and then until vital signs are stable, but at least for 12 hours after the end of the administration of Nicardipine.
The antihypertensive effect will depend on the administered dose. The dosage regimen to achieve the desired blood pressure can vary depending on the targeted blood pressure, the response of the patient, and the age or status of the patient.
Unless given by a central venous line, dilute to a concentration of 0.1-0.2 mg/ml before use.
Adults: Initial dose: Treatment should start with the continuous administration of Nicardipine at a rate of 3-5 mg/h for 15 minutes. Rates can be increased by increments of 0.5 or 1 mg every 15 minutes.
The infusion rate should not exceed 15 mg/h.
Maintenance dose: When the target pressure is reached, the dose should be reduced progressively, usually to between 2 and 4 mg/h, to maintain the therapeutic efficacy.
Older patients: Elderly patients may be more sensitive to Nicardipine effects because of impaired renal and/or hepatic function. It is recommended to provide a continuous infusion of Nicardipine starting at the dose of 1 to 5 mg/h, depending on the blood pressure and clinical situation. After 30 minutes, depending on the effect observed, the rate should be increased or decreased by increments of 0.5 mg/h. The rate should not exceed 15 mg/h.