DOXAPRAM

It is safe, peripherally acting respiratory stimulant. It acts primarily by selectively stimulating peripheral carotid chemoreceptors. It elicits respiratory response within 20-40 seconds. It increases pulmonary ventilation.

Indications

Postanesthetic use, Drug-induced CNS Depression.

Dosage

Postanesthetic use : I.V.infusion at 0.5-1.5mg/kg. Max 4mg per kg. Drug-induced CNS Depression : Priming dose 2mg/kg I.V. Repeat in 5 minutes and then every 1-2 hours until the patient awakens.Total maximum daily dose 3 grams.

Contra-Indications

Severe heart disease and hypertension, severe COPD, epilepsy, cerebral oedema, hyperthyroidism, ischemic heart disease, status asthmaticus, epilepsy, convulsive disorders, phaeochromcytoma, recent cerebrovascular accident, children under 12.

Side Effects

Seen only in overdosage. Hypertension, tachycardia and fasciculations; agitation, confusion and dyspnoea.