Suprane Caution For Usage

Observations Related to Vaporizer Use: Yellow discoloration of SUPRANE sometimes accompanied by particulates, has been observed through the vaporizer sight glass or after draining the vaporizer. The presence of discoloration or particulates in these situations, does not alter the quality or efficacy of SUPRANE. If observed, refer to the respective vaporizer Instructions For Use (IFU) for recommended actions or contact Baxter Product Surveillance.
Safety and Handling: Occupational Caution: There is no specific work exposure limit established for SUPRANE. However, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health Administration (NIOSH) recommends that no worker should be exposed at ceiling concentrations greater than 2 ppm of any halogenated anesthetic agent over a sampling period not to exceed one hour.
Principle routes of exposure include: Skin contact: May cause skin irritation. In case of contact, immediately flush skin with plenty of water. Remove contaminated clothing and shoes. Seek medical attention if irritation develops.
Eye contact: May cause eye irritation. In case of contact, immediately flush eyes with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes. Seek medical attention if irritation develops.
Ingestion: No specific hazards other than therapeutic effects. Do NOT induce vomiting unless directed to do so by medical personnel. Never give anything by mouth to an unconscious person. If large quantities of this material are swallowed, seek medical attention immediately.
Inhalation: If individuals smell vapors, or experience dizziness or headaches, they should be moved to an area with fresh air. Individuals could also experience the following: Cardiovascular effects: may include fluctuations in heart rate, changes in blood pressure, chest pain. Respiratory effects: may include shortness of breath, bronchospasms, laryngospasms, respiratory depression. Gastrointestinal effects: may include nausea, upset stomach, loss of appetite. Nervous System effects: may include ataxia, tremor, disturbance of speech, lethargy, headache, dizziness, blurred vision.
The predicted effects of acute overexposure by inhalation of SUPRANE include headache, dizziness or (in extreme cases) unconsciousness [see Overdosage].
There are no documented adverse effects of chronic exposure to halogenated anesthetic vapors (Waste Anesthetic Gases or WAGs) in the workplace. Although results of some epidemiological studies suggest a link between exposure to halogenated anesthetics and increased health problems (particularly spontaneous abortion), the relationship is not conclusive. Since exposure to WAGs is one possible factor in the findings for these studies, operating room personnel, and pregnant women in particular, should minimize exposure. Precautions include adequate general ventilation in the operating room, the use of a well-designed and well-maintained scavenging system; work practices to minimize leaks and spills while the anesthetic agent is in use, and routine equipment maintenance to minimize leaks.
Consistent with clinical data, concentrations would need to reach 2-3% in inspired air before individuals would likely experience dizziness or other physiologic effects.