Who can administer
May be administered by registered competent doctor or nurse/midwife
Important information
- MUST be diluted in AT LEAST 100ml (pH prior to dilution is 2.0 i.e. very acidic & irritant)
- IV monograph to accompany each dispensing from pharmacy until further notice (P Kidd, Jul 2023)
- Unlicensed preparation
- Must be Consultant authorised
Available preparations
Copper Chloride (Cupric copper) 4mg per 10mL vial
Reconstitution
Already in solution
MUST dilute further prior to administration
Infusion fluids
Sodium chloride 0.9%
Methods of intravenous administration
Intermittent intravenous infusion (administer using an electronically controlled infusion device)
- Add required dose to a MINIMUM of 100mL infusion fluid and administer over 2 to 4 hours (ref 1)
Dose in adults
Usual dose (deficiency)
- Give 2 to 4mg daily for six days or until normalisation of copper serum levels and resolution of signs/symptoms
Monitoring
- Monitor copper levels closely
Further information
- Limited information available for dosage and administration of copper injection alone - as it is usually part of Parenteral Nutrition bags
Storage
Store at room temperature
References
1: What is the evidence supporting the use of intravenous copper for copper deficiency? Drug Information Group, University of Illinois Chicago November 2022
