Doxapram is a medication that is primarily used to stimulate breathing in individuals who are having difficulty breathing or who have stopped breathing. Here is some information on the medication:
Uses:
- Stimulate breathing in patients with respiratory depression due to drug overdose, anesthesia, or other causes.
- It can also be used as a respiratory stimulant in premature infants.
Dose:
- The usual adult dose is 1 to 2 mg/kg per minute, given as a continuous intravenous infusion.
- The dose for premature infants is usually 0.1 to 0.5 mg/kg per minute.
Brand name: Doxapram is the generic name for this medication. It is sold under various brand names, including Dopram, Dopram-V, and Respiram.
Side effects:
- Common side effects of doxapram include restlessness, nervousness, tremors, and sweating.
- More serious side effects include high blood pressure, chest pain, irregular heartbeat, seizures, and respiratory distress.
- It can also cause nausea, vomiting, headache, and flushing.
It is important to note that doxapram should only be administered under the supervision of a trained medical professional in a hospital or clinical setting, as it can have serious side effects and should not be used in certain populations, such as individuals with heart disease or a history of seizures.