Locations:

Ziconotide Injection

What is this medication?

ZICONOTIDE (zye KON oh tide) treats severe, chronic pain. It is prescribed when other pain medications have not worked or cannot be tolerated. It works by blocking pain signals in the brain.

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This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Prialt

What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • Bleeding disorder
  • Blood diseases
  • Infection
  • Mental health condition
  • Previous suicide attempt by you or a family member
  • Spinal canal blockage
  • An unusual or allergic reaction to ziconotide, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
  • Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
  • Breast-feeding

How should I use this medication?

This medication is for injection into the space around the spinal cord. It is given by a special implanted pump under the supervision of your care team. You will be taught how to use your pump.

Talk to your care team regarding the use of this medication in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

This does not apply. Your care team will schedule refills of your medication pump as needed. It is important not to miss your appointments. Call your care team if you are unable to keep an appointment.

What may interact with this medication?

  • Alcohol
  • Other medications that cause drowsiness

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This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medication?

Tell your care team if your pain does not go away, if it gets worse, or if you have new or a different type of pain. You may need blood work done while you are taking this medication.

This medication may affect your coordination, reaction time, or judgment. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how this medication affects you. Sit up or stand slowly to reduce the risk of dizzy or fainting spells. Drinking alcohol with this medication can increase the risk of these side effects.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

  • Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
  • Difficulty with paying attention, memory, or speech
  • Fever, neck pain or stiffness, sensitivity to light, headache, nausea, vomiting, confusion
  • Mood and behavior changes—anxiety, nervousness, confusion, hallucinations, irritability, hostility, thoughts of suicide or self-harm, worsening mood, feelings of depression
  • Muscle injury—unusual weakness or fatigue, muscle pain, dark yellow or brown urine, decrease in amount of urine

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

  • Confusion
  • Dizziness
  • Nausea
  • Uncontrollable eye movements

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medication?

Keep out of the reach of children and pets. This medicine is given in a hospital or clinic. It will not be stored at home.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.

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Note: Introduction and Additional Common Questions written and medically approved by Cleveland Clinic professionals.

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