Pralidoxime (Injection)

Introduction:

Pralidoxime (pral-i-DOX-eem)

Used with atropine to treat nerve agent poisoning.

Brand Name(s):

Protopam Chloride

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Injectable

• Your doctor will prescribe your exact dose and tell you how often it should be given. This medicine is given as a shot into one of your muscles.
• A nurse or other trained health professional will give you this medicine.
• You may be taught how to give your medicine. Make sure you understand all instructions before giving yourself an injection. Do not use more medicine or use it more often than your doctor tells you to.
• This medicine comes with patient instructions. Read and follow these instructions carefully. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

• If you store this medicine at home, keep it at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
• Throw away used needles and injector according to instructions.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Tell your doctor if you are using any medicines that make you sleepy. These include sleeping pills, cold and allergy medicine, narcotic pain relievers, and sedatives.
• There are many other drugs that can interact with pralidoxime. Make sure your doctor knows about all other medicines you are using.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breast feeding.
• Make sure your doctor knows if you have kidney disease.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing.
• Blurred vision or double vision.
• Dizziness, drowsiness, or muscle weakness.
• Fast heartbeat.

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Dry mouth or nose.
• Headache or nausea.
• Pain where the shot was given.
• Warmth or redness in your face, neck, arms, or upper chest.
• Weakness.

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor: