Pralidoxime is the active ingredient in the medication. It is available as a generic drug and under various brand names.Pralidoxime belongs to a class of drugs called cholinesterase reactivators.
Pralidoxime is used as an antidote to treat nerve agent poisoning, specifically organophosphate poisoning (OP poisoning).
It is also used in the treatment of insecticide poisoning and some cases of mushroom poisoning.
Pralidoxime is not effective in treating poisoning by other types of chemicals, such as carbamates or pesticides.
Unipam Inj 1gm (Pralidoxime) works by reactivating acetylcholinesterase, an enzyme that is essential for nerve function. Organophosphate poisons bind to and inhibit acetylcholinesterase, leading to the accumulation of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter, in the synaptic cleft. This accumulation causes the symptoms of OP poisoning, such as muscle weakness, paralysis, respiratory distress, and seizures. Pralidoxime binds to the organophosphate molecule and removes it from the active site of acetylcholinesterase, allowing the enzyme to regain its function. By reactivating acetylcholinesterase, pralidoxime helps to restore normal nerve function.
Store pralidoxime at room temperature, away from moisture and direct sunlight.
Keep pralidoxime out of reach of children and pets.
Do not use pralidoxime if the container is damaged or if the medication has expired.
Dispose of pralidoxime properly when it is no longer needed.
Never flush medications down the toilet or pour them down the drain.
The dosage of pralidoxime will vary depending on the severity of the poisoning, the age and weight of the patient, and other medical factors.
Pralidoxime is typically administered intravenously (by injection into a vein) or intramuscularly (by injection into a muscle).
The dosage and administration method should be prescribed by a qualified healthcare professional.
It is essential to follow the prescribed dosage and administration instructions carefully.
Like all medications, pralidoxime can cause side effects. Some common side effects include:
Nausea
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Headache
Muscle weakness
Dizziness
Confusion
Seizures
Cardiac arrhythmias (irregular heartbeat)
Hypotension (low blood pressure)
Respiratory depression (slowed breathing)
Anaphylaxis (severe allergic reaction)
Alcohol consumption can exacerbate the side effects of pralidoxime. It is best to avoid alcohol while taking this medication.
Pralidoxime can cause dizziness and confusion, which can impair driving or operating machinery. Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how pralidoxime affects you.
Pralidoxime should only be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding if the benefits outweigh the potential risks. It is essential to consult with your doctor before taking pralidoxime if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Pralidoxime is not recommended for use in children unless prescribed by a doctor. The dosage should be adjusted based on the child's weight and medical condition.
Pralidoxime is primarily eliminated from the body by the kidneys. In patients with kidney disease, the dosage may need to be adjusted.
Pralidoxime is not known to have significant effects on liver function.
U.S. National Library of Medicine: MedlinePlus
U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)
World Health Organization (WHO)
