Pralidoxime
Introduction To Pralidoxime
Pralidoxime is a prescription medicine used in the treatment of poisoning caused by pesticides and chemicals that contain organophosphates. It is used in the cases where respiratory depression occurs as a result of muscle weakness due to poisoning.
Pralidoxime is administered in a medical emergency situation thus aim should be to seek treatment of poisoning without waiting for the results of laboratory tests. This injection is given under the supervision of a healthcare professional. Moreover, it is important to consult your doctor if you have abnormal heartbeat, difficulty or trouble with breathing, increased muscle weakness, or severe tiredness after receiving this medicine.
There can be some side effects like nausea, muscle weakness, headache, double vision, and blurred vision. It may also cause dizziness and sleepiness, so do not drive or do anything that requires mental focus until you will better. This medicine may also increase your blood pressure, so it is better to consult your doctor if it bothers you.
Uses of Pralidoxime
- Organophosphate poisoning
Benefits of Pralidoxime
Organophosphate poisoning
Organophosphates are used as insecticides or medications. Symptoms of
organophosphate poisoning include increased saliva and tear production,
diarrhea, vomiting, small pupils, sweating, muscle tremors, and confusion.
Pralidoxime helps to undo the effects of organophosphate poisoning and to
restore normal life functions. It is given as an injection by a doctor or
nurse.
Side effects of Pralidoxime
Most side effects do not require any medical attention and disappear as your body adjusts to the medicine. Consult your doctor if they persist or if you’re worried about them
Common side effects of Clopam
- Accomodation disorder
- Dizziness
- Double vision
- Drowsiness
- Headache
- High blood pressure
- Increased heart rate
- Muscle weakness
- Nausea
How to use Pralidoxime
Your doctor or nurse will give you this medicine. Kindly do not self administer.
How Pralidoxime works
Pralidoxime reactivates the enzymes blocked by many pesticides (organophosphates). It is an antidote used in the poisoning of these pesticides.
Quick tips
- Pralidoxime is given as an injection into veins, muscles or under the skin by a doctor only.
- Your doctor will monitor you closely for a period of 72 hours after giving the medicine.
- Your doctor will closely monitor your heart rate, blood pressure, breathing rate and oxygen level during the treatment.
- It may cause temporary blurring of your vision. Do not drive or do anything that requires concentration until you know how it affects you.
Safety Advice
PregnancyCONSULT YOUR DOCTOR
Can I take Pralidoxime if I’m pregnant?
Pralidoxime may be unsafe to use during pregnancy. Although there are limited studies in humans, animal studies have shown harmful effects on the developing baby. Your doctor will weigh the benefits and any potential risks before prescribing it to you. Please consult your doctor.
BreastfeedingCAUTION
Can I take Pralidoxime if I’m breastfeeding?
Pralidoxime should be used with caution during breastfeeding. Breastfeeding should be held until the treatment of the mother is completed and the drug is eliminated from her body.
AlcoholCONSULT YOUR DOCTOR
Is drinking alcohol while taking Pralidoxime safe?
It is not known whether it is safe to consume alcohol with Pralidoxime. Please consult your doctor.
DrivingCONSULT YOUR DOCTOR
Can I drive after taking Pralidoxime?
It is not known whether Pralidoxime alters the ability to drive. Do not drive if you experience any symptoms that affect your ability to concentrate and react.
KidneyCAUTION
Can I take Pralidoxime if I have/had kidney diseases?
Pralidoxime should be used with caution in patients with kidney disease. Dose adjustment of Pralidoxime may be needed. Please consult your doctor.
LiverCONSULT YOUR DOCTOR
Can I take Pralidoxime if I have/had liver diseases?
There is limited information available on the use of Pralidoxime in patients with liver disease. Please consult your doctor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How does Pralidoxime work?
Pralidoxime works by reactivating the enzyme acetylcholinesterase, which has been inactivated by pesticides or certain drugs, and breaks down the excess acetylcholine resulting from poisoning. Thus, it helps in reversing muscle weakness or respiratory depression caused by poisoning or drug over dosing.
References
Written By:
Dr Advikka Ridhy
MBBS
RMO, Aster MIMS
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