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Pralidoxime

Antidote

Also known as Pralidoxime chloride

Antidote
CDSCO approved
EXCRETION
not curated
INTERACTIONS
1 major
incl. contraindicated
PREGNANCY
not curated
Top interactions
  • Carbamate Anti ChesContraindicatedTextbookKDT 7e · p111

Mechanism

Pralidoxime chloride functions as a cholinesterase reactivator. It reverses the inhibition of cholinesterase caused by organophosphorus compounds, thereby restoring the enzyme's ability to hydrolyze acetylcholine. This action leads to a reduction in the effects of acetylcholine accumulation, particularly improving muscle tone.

Indications

Treatment of poisoning by organophosphorus insecticide (moderate or severe)Treatment of nerve agent poisoningorganophosphate anti-ChE poisoning

Dosing

Adult
Continued until the patient has not required atropine sulfate for 12 hours.

Pharmacokinetics

Onset
Improves muscle tone within 30 minutes of administration.
Half-life
Repetitive dosing recommended due to rapid renal elimination.
Bioavailability
Does not penetrate into brain
Protein binding
The quaternary ammonium group restricts entry into the CNS.
Excretion
Readily eliminated by the kidney

Contraindications

  • carbamate anti-ChE poisoning (e.g., physostigmine, neostigmine, carbaryl, propoxur)

Drug interactions

Carbamate Anti Ches
Contraindicated
Textbook

No reactivation of carbamylated enzyme; may worsen the patient's condition due to its own anti-ChE activity.

Pralidoxime is contraindicated in carbamate poisoning.

Source: KDT 7e · p111

3 additional low-confidence interactions hidden — those rows lack a documented mechanism or management plan in our sources.

Related guidelines

Other Antidote drugs

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Sources: KD Tripathi 7e, Goodman & Gilman 14e, Katzung, BNF·Verified: 2026-05-10 · House clinical team