Protopam chloride is an antidote used in combination with another drug called atropine for the treatment of poisoning caused by organic phosphorus pesticides and by organophosphate chemicals used in chemical warfare.
This drug is also used to treat overdose of drugs that are used to treat myasthenia gravis. Your muscles, including the muscles that help you breathe, to become weak when poisoning happens.
This drug is used to help you get back strength in your muscles. This drug is to be given only by or under the direct supervision of a healthcare professional or trained military personnel.
If you are about to start Protopam chloride, speak with your doctor about what you need to know. Inform your healthcare provider for any allergic reactions to these drugs or any other drugs, foods, dyes, preservatives, or animals.
Carefully read the label of non-prescription drugs for any possible allergic reaction or contraindications. Studies in children have not demonstrated any pediatric-specific problems that would limit the utility of pralidoxime injection.
Studies in the elderly have not demonstrated any geriatric-specific problems that would limit the utility of pralidoxime injection.
Adjustments in the dose of the elderly patients may be required since they are more likely to have age-related kidney, liver, or heart problems.
Adverse effects have been reported in animal studies but studies in pregnant women or animals are still inadequate. Infant risk is still undetermined when using this drug during breastfeeding.
Discuss with your healthcare professional about the potential risks and benefits of taking this drug while breastfeeding.
Drugs should not be taken together to prevent any interactions but in necessary cases inquire your healthcare provider regarding the adjustments in dosage or any other necessary precautions to prevent any unwanted side effects.
Inform your healthcare professional if you are taking any other prescription or nonprescription drugs. Intake of specific food or using alcohol or tobacco with this drug is associated with an increased risk of certain side effects.
Your healthcare professional can give you special instructions about the use of food, alcohol, or tobacco. Inform your healthcare provider for any other medical problems such as kidney disease, or myasthenia gravis.
Before using Protopam chloride, there are some precautions you must take. Regular visits should be made to your healthcare provider to track your progress and to monitor the effectiveness of the drug. Unwanted effects can be screened using blood tests.
Call your healthcare professional immediately if you have a fast heartbeat, difficulty or trouble with breathing increased muscle weakness, or severe tiredness after receiving this drug.
This drug will potentiate the effects of CNS depressants such as:
- antihistamines or drugs for hay fever
- other allergies or colds
- sedatives
- tranquilizers or sleeping drugs
- prescription pain drugs or narcotics
- barbiturates
- drugs for seizures
- muscle relaxants or anesthetics, including some dental anesthetics
Check with your healthcare professional before you take any other prescription or nonprescription drugs, and herbal or vitamin supplements.
As with many medications, there are several potential side effects associated with Protopam chloride. Side effects may vary for each individual and prompt medical attention should be given if they occur.
Seek advice from your healthcare professional immediately if you experience any unusual symptoms such as:
- blurred or double vision
- change in near or distance vision
- difficult or rapid breathing
- difficulty in focusing the eyes
- the difficulty with speaking
- dizziness
- fast, pounding or irregular heartbeat or pulse
- muscle stiffness or weakness
- pain at the injection site
- deep or fast breathing with dizziness
- numbness of the feet, hands, and around the mouth
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. As your body adjusts to the medicine, the side effects will slowly disappear. Ask your healthcare professional about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects.
If any of the following side effects persists or are inconvenient, or if you notice any other effects, or if you have any questions about them, consult with your health care professional. Report any side effects to the FDA hotline at 1-800-FDA-1088.
