Droperidol

Droperidol is a butyrophenone, structurally related to haloperidol. It functions as a first-generation antipsychotic by blocking dopamine receptors. Specifically, it blocks dopamine D2 receptors in the chemoreceptor trigger zone. This action in the CTZ is primarily responsible for its antiemetic effects.

Adult

Prevention and treatment of postoperative nausea and vomiting: BY INTRAVENOUS INJECTION, 0.625–1.25 mg, dose to be given 30 minutes before end of surgery, then 0.625–1.25 mg every 6 hours as required.…

Renal adjustment

For postoperative nausea and vomiting, maximum 625 micrograms repeated every 6 hours as required. For nausea and vomiting caused by opioid analgesics in postoperative patient-controlled analgesia, reduce dose.

Hepatic adjustment

Manufacturer advises caution. For prevention and treatment of postoperative nausea and vomiting, maximum 625 micrograms repeated every 6 hours as required. For prevention of nausea and vomiting caused by opioid analgesics in postoperative patient-controlled analgesia, manufacturer advises dose reduction (no specific information available).

Geriatric

Prevention and treatment of postoperative nausea and vomiting: BY INTRAVENOUS INJECTION, 625 micrograms, dose to be given 30 minutes before end of surgery, then 625 micrograms every 6 hours as required. Prevention of nausea and vomiting caused by opioid analgesics in postoperative patient-controlled analgesia (PCA): Reduce dose.

Max dose

5 mg per day (for opioid analgesics in PCA).

• Bradycardia
• Comatose states
• Hypokalaemia
• Hypomagnesaemia
• Phaeochromocytoma
• QT-interval prolongation