Nicardipine Dilution for Intravenous Administration
Nicardipine must be diluted to a concentration of 0.1 mg/mL before intravenous infusion: add each 25 mg vial to 240 mL of compatible IV fluid to yield 250 mL total volume. 1
Dilution Protocol for Single-Dose Vials
- Each 25 mg vial requires dilution with 240 mL of compatible IV fluid, resulting in 250 mL at a final concentration of 0.1 mg/mL 1
- The diluted solution remains stable for 24 hours at controlled room temperature in polyvinyl chloride containers 1
Compatible IV Fluids
The following solutions are compatible with nicardipine for dilution 1:
- Dextrose 5% Injection, USP
- Dextrose 5% and Sodium Chloride 0.45% Injection, USP
- Dextrose 5% and Sodium Chloride 0.9% Injection, USP
- Dextrose 5% with 40 mEq Potassium, USP
- Sodium Chloride 0.45% Injection, USP
- Sodium Chloride 0.9% Injection, USP
Incompatible Solutions
Never mix nicardipine with Sodium Bicarbonate 5% Injection, USP or Lactated Ringer's Injection, USP 1
Pre-Mixed Flexible Containers
- Nicardipine Hydrochloride in 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection premixed bags do not require dilution 1
- Inspect the bag for leaks by squeezing firmly before use; discard if the seal is not intact 1
- Do not add supplementary medications to premixed bags 1
- Protect from light until ready to use 1
Critical Safety Checks Before Administration
- Visually inspect for particulate matter, precipitate, or crystallization before use 1
- Do not use if particulate matter is present or if the container appears damaged 1
- Never use plastic containers in series connections due to air embolism risk 1
Administration Route Considerations
- Administer by slow continuous infusion via a central line or large peripheral vein 1
- Change the infusion site every 12 hours if using a peripheral vein to prevent phlebitis 1, 2
- Central line administration is preferred to avoid superficial thrombophlebitis, which occurred in pediatric patients receiving peripheral infusions 2