DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION

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Copper (Cupric Chloride Injection) contains 0.4 mg of copper per mL and is administered intravenously only after dilution. The additive should be diluted in a volume of fluid not less than 100 mL.

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For the adult receiving TPN, the suggested additive dosage of copper is 0.3 to 0.5 mg/day.

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For pediatric patients, the suggested additive dosage of copper is 20 mcg/kg/day (0.05 mL/kg/day) up to a maximum of 500 mcg/day.

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This product is not appropriate for patients weighing less than 4 kg due to the inability to measure the appropriate amount of the product.

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Do not administer Copper (Cupric Chloride Injection) intramuscularly because the acidic pH of the solution may cause considerable tissue irritation.

Copper (Cupric Chloride Injection) should only be used in conjunction with a pharmacy directed admixture program using aseptic technique in a laminar flow environment; it should be used promptly and in a single operation without any repeated penetrations. The solution contains no preservatives; discard the unused portion immediately after the admixture procedure is completed.

Copper (Cupric Chloride Injection) should be inspected visually for particulate matter and discoloration prior to administration. Do not use unless the solution is clear, and the seal is intact.

Cupric ion may degrade ascorbic acid in TPN solutions. In order to avoid this loss of ascorbate, multivitamin additives should be added to TPN solutions immediately prior to infusion. Alternatively, the multivitamin additive may be added to one container of TPN solution, followed by copper in a subsequent container.