Pralidoxime (Pralidoxime)
Overview of Pralidoxime
Pralidoxime is a cholinesterase reactivator. Chemically Pralidoxime is 2-formyl-1-methylpyridinium. Pralidoxime is used as an antidote to reverse muscle paralysis resulting from organophosphate anticholinesterase pesticide poisoning. Because it does not significantly relieve depression of the respiratory center or decrease the muscarinic effects of anticholinesterase poisoning, atropine must be administered concomitantly to block the effects of the poison on these areas. Pralidoxime is also used to reverse the effects of overdosage of anticholinesterase agents used in the treatment of myasthenia gravis, i.e., neostigmine, pyridostigmine and ambenomium.
Indication of Pralidoxime
Pralidoxime is primarily indicated in conditions like Poisoning of organophosphate.
Contraindication of Pralidoxime
Pralidoxime is contraindicated in conditions like Myasthenia gravis.
Side Effects of Pralidoxime
The severe or irreversible adverse effects of Pralidoxime, which give rise to further complications include Mania, Excitement.,The symptomatic adverse reactions produced by Pralidoxime are more or less tolerable and if they become severe, they can be treated symptomatically, these include Dizziness, Headache, Nausea, Tachycardia, Blurred vision, Diplopia, Muscular weakness, Disturbances of accomodation, Hyperventilation, Heaviness of eye.
Precautions of Pralidoxime
Caution in required in administering pralidoxime to patients with myasthenia gravis, as it may precipitate a myasthenia crisis. Pralidoxime should be used cautiously in patients with impaired renal function, reduction in dose may be necessary. It should not be used to treat poisoning by carbamate pesticides. Avoid concurrent use with atropine.