Nitric Oxide Side Effects

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Dec 3, 2024.

Applies to nitric oxide: inhalation gas.

Precautions

It is very important that your baby's doctor check your baby closely while receiving this medicine. This will allow the doctor to see if the medicine is working properly and to decide if your baby should continue to receive it. Blood tests may be needed to check for unwanted effects.

Your baby's doctor also needs to monitor your baby's breathing, oxygen levels, and other vital signs while receiving this medicine.

Stopping this medicine suddenly may increase your baby's risk to have rebound pulmonary hypertension syndrome. Symptoms include: bluish lips or skin, slow heartbeat, lightheadedness, dizziness, or fainting, or decreased cardiac output.

This medicine may cause a rare, but serious blood problem called methemoglobinemia. Your baby's doctor will measure how much methemoglobin is in your baby's blood while receiving this medicine.

Do not take other medicines unless they have been discussed with your doctor. This includes prescription or nonprescription (over-the-counter [OTC]) medicines and herbal or vitamin supplements.

Serious side effects of nitric oxide

Along with its needed effects, nitric oxide may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor or nurse immediately if any of the following side effects occur while taking nitric oxide:

Get emergency help immediately if any of the following symptoms of overdose occur while taking nitric oxide:

Symptoms of overdose

• bluish-colored lips, fingernails, or palms
• dark urine
• fever
• headache
• pale skin
• rapid heart rate
• sore throat
• unusual bleeding or bruising

Other side effects of nitric oxide

Some side effects of nitric oxide may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects.

Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

For healthcare professionals

Applies to nitric oxide: inhalation gas.

Hematologic adverse events

• Very common (10% or more): Thrombocytopenia
• Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Methemoglobinemia^[Ref]

Cardiovascular

• Common (1% to 10%): Hypotension
• Postmarketing reports: Bradycardia (following abrupt discontinuation of therapy)^[Ref]

Respiratory

• Common (1% to 10%): Atelectasis
• Postmarketing reports: Hypoxia, dyspnea, chest discomfort, dry throat^[Ref]

Nervous system

• Postmarketing reports: Headache, dizziness^[Ref]

See also:

Further information

Nitric oxide side effects can vary depending on the individual. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Note: Medication side effects may be underreported. If you are experiencing side effects that are not listed, submit a report to the FDA by following this guide.

Medical Disclaimer