PRALIDOXIME CHLORIDE

The principal action of its is to reactivate cholinesterase which has been inactivated by phosphorylation due to an organophosphate. The destruction of accumulated acetylcholine can then proceed and neuromuscular functions will again function normally. It also slows the process of aging of phosphorylated cholinesterase to a nonreactivitable form, & detoxifies certain organophosphates by direct chemical reaction. The drug has rapid effects in relieving paralysis of the muscles of respiration, convulsion, bradycardia & sweating.

Indications

It is an antidote in the treatment of poisoning due to parathion and methyl parathion.

Dosage

Adults : Pralidoxime chloride 1 g (2 vials) once daily administered slowly by intravenous injection by dissolving with 2 diluent ampoules. Pralidoxime chloride 1-2 g (2-4 vials) once daily administered by drip infusion over 30 minutes by dissolving in 100 ml of 0.9% Sodium chloride solution. May be administered repeatedly if necessary. Children : 20-40 mg/kg once daily.

Special Precautions

Drug should be admin. after injection of atropine & by combination with atropine, onset of the effect may be retarded. Myasthenia: May produce reactions different from normal subjects.

Side Effects

Dizziness, double vision, impairment of accomodation membrane, drowsiness, headache, bitterness in the mouth, vomiting, tachycardia, constriction and dilatation of blood vessel, arrhythmia, blood pressure increase, hyper-respiration & myasthenia may occur.

Drug Interactions

Potentiates toxicity by carbamate pesticides. Potentiates atropenization.