ADVERSE REACTIONS SECTION.

ADVERSE REACTIONS. Forty to 60 minutes after intramuscular injection, mild to moderate pain may be experienced at the site of injection.Pralidoxime chloride may cause blurred vision, diplopia and impaired accommodation, dizziness, headache, drowsiness, nausea, tachycardia, increased systolic and diastolic blood pressure, hyperventilation, and muscular weakness when given parenterally to normal volunteers who have not been exposed to anticholinesterase poisons. In patients, it is very difficult to differentiate the toxic effects produced by atropine or the organophosphate compounds from those of the drug.Elevations in SGOT and/or SGPT enzyme levels were observed in of normal volunteers given 1200 mg of pralidoxime chloride intramuscularly, and in of volunteers given 1800 mg intramuscularly. Levels returned to normal in about weeks. Transient elevations in creatine phosphokinase were observed in all normal volunteers given the drug.When atropine and pralidoxime chloride are used together, the signs of atropinization may occur earlier than might be expected when atropine is used alone. This is especially true if the total dose of atropine has been large and the administration of pralidoxime chloride has been delayed. Exctextent and manic behavior immediately following recovery of consciousness have been reported in several cases. However, similar behavior has occurred in cases of organophosphate poisoning that were not treated with pralidoxime chloride.

ANIMAL PHARMACOLOGY & OR TOXICOLOGY SECTION.

ANIMAL PHARMACOLOGY AND TOXICOLOGY. The following table lists chemical and trade or generic names of pesticides, chemicals, and drugs against which PROTOPAM Chloride (usually administered in conjunction with atropine) has been found to have antidotal activity on the basis of animal experiments. All compounds listed are organophosphates having anticholinesterase activity. great many additional substances are in industrial use but have been omitted because of lack of specific information. AAT--see PARATHION AFLIX--see FORMOTHIONALKRON--see PARATHIONAMERICAN CYANAMID 3422--see PARATHION AMITON--diethyl-S-(2-diethylaminoethyl)phosphorothiolate ANTHIO--see FORMOTHIONAPHAMITE--see PARATHION ARMIN--ethyl-4-nitrophenylethylphosphonate AZINPHOS-METHYL--dimethyl-S-[(4-oxo-1,2,3,-benzotriazin-3(4 H)-yl)methyl] phosphorodithioateMORPHOTHION--dimethyl-S-2-keto-2-(N-morpholyl)ethylphosphorodithioate NEGUVON--see TRICHLOROFONNIRAN--see PARATHIONNITROSTIGMINE--see PARATHION O,O-DIETHYL-O-p-NITROPHENYL PHOSPHOROTHIOATE--see PARATHION O,O-DIETHYL-O-p-NITROPHENYLTHIO PHOSPHATE--see PARATHION OR 1191--see PHOSPHAMIDON OS 1836--see VINYLPHOS OXYDEMETONMETHYL--dimethyl-S-2-(ethylsulfinyl) ethyl phosphorothiolate PARAOXON--diethyl (4-nitrophenyl) phosphate PARATHION--diethyl (4-nitrophenyl) phosphorothionate PENPHOS--see PARATHION PHENCAPTON--diethyl-S-(2,5-dichlorophenylmercaptomethyl) phosphorodithioate PHOSDRIN--see MEVINPHOSPHOS-KIL--see PARATHION PHOSPHAMIDON--1-chloro-1-diethylcarbamoyl-1-propen-2-yl-dimethylphosphate PHOSPHOLINE IODIDE--see echothiophate iodidePHOSPHOROTHIOIC ACID, O,O-DIETHYL-O-p-NITROPHENYL ESTER--see PARATHION PLANTHION--see PARATHION QUELETOX--see FENTHION RH--see PARATHIONRU--4-tert-butyl-2-chlorophenylmethyl-N-methylphosphoroamidateSARIN--isopropyl-methylphosphonofluoridate SHELL OS 1836--see VINYLPHOS SHELL 2046--see MEVINPHOS SNP--see PARATHION SOMAN pinacolyl-methylphosphonofluoridateSYSTOX diethyl-(2-ethylmercaptoethyl) phosphorothionateTEP see TEPP TEPP tetraethylpyro phosphateTHIOPHOS- see PARATHIONTIGUVON see FENTHIONTRICHLOROFON dimethyl-1-hydroxy-2,2,2-trichloroethylphosphonateVAPONA see DICHLORVOSVAPOPHOS see PARATHION VINYLPHOS diethyl-2-chloro-vinylphosphatePROTOPAM Chloride (pralidoxime chloride) appears to be ineffective, or marginallyeffective, against poisoning by:CIODRIN (alpha-methylbenzyl-3-[dimethoxyphosphinyloxy]-ciscrotonate)DIMEFOX (tetramethylphosphorodiamidic fluoride)DIMETHOATE (dimethyl-S-[N-methylcarbamoylmethyl]phosphorodithioate)METHYL DIAZINON (dimethyl-[2-isopropyl-4-methylpyrimidyl]-phosphorothionate)METHYL PHENCAPTON (dimethyl-S-[2,5-dichlorophenylmercaptomethyl]phosphorodithioate)PHORATE (diethyl-S-ethylmercaptomethylphosphorodithioate)SCHRADAN (octamethylpyrophosphoramide)WEPSYN (5-amino-1-[bis-(dimethylamino) phosphinyl]-3-phenyl-1,2,4-triazole).

CARCINOGENESIS & MUTAGENESIS & IMPAIRMENT OF FERTILITY SECTION.

Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility. Because pralidoxime chloride is indicated for short-term emergency use only, no investigations of its potential for carcinogenesis, mutagenesis, or impairment of fertility have been conducted by the manufacturer, or reported in the literature.

CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY SECTION.

CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY. The principal action of pralidoxime chloride is to reactivate cholinesterase (mainly outside of the central nervous system) which has been inactivated by phosphorylation due to an organophosphate pesticide or related compound. The destruction of accumulated acetylcholine can then proceed, and neuromuscular junctions will again function normally. Pralidoxime chloride also slows the process of aging of phosphorylated cholinesterase to nonreactivatable form, and detoxifies certain organophosphates by direct chemical reaction. The drug has its most critical effect in relieving paralysis of the muscles of respiration. Because pralidoxime chloride is less effective in relieving depression of the respiratory center, atropine is always required concomitantly to block the effect of accumulated acetylcholine at this site. Pralidoxime chloride relieves muscarinic signs and symptoms, salivation, bronchospasm, etc., but this action is relatively unimportant since atropine is adequate for this purpose.PROTOPAM Chloride has been studied in animals as an antidote against numerous organophosphate pesticides, chemicals, and drugs (see Animal Pharmacology and Toxicology). Regardless of whether or not animal studies suggest that the organophosphate poison to which particular patient has been exposed is amenable to treatment with pralidoxime chloride, the use of pralidoxime chloride should, nevertheless, be considered in any life-threatening situation resulting from poisoning by these compounds, since the limited and arbitrary conditions of pharmacologic screening do not always accurately reflect the usefulness of pralidoxime chloride in the clinical situation.

CLINICAL STUDIES SECTION.

CLINICAL STUDIES. There are no adequate and well controlled clinical studies that establish the effectiveness of pralidoxime chloride as treatment for poisoning with organophosphates having anticholinesterase activity. However, its use has been considered to be successful against poisoning with numerous pesticides, chemicals, and drugs.. Pharmacokinetics. Animal studies suggest that the minimum therapeutic concentration of pralidoxime in plasma is ug/mL; this level is reached in about 16 minutes after single injection of 600 mg pralidoxime chloride. In one study of healthy adult volunteers and patients self-poisoned with organophosphate compounds, single intramuscular injection of 1000 mg of pralidoxime chloride resulted in mean peak plasma levels of 7.5 +- 1.7 ug/mL and 9.9 +- 2.4 ug/mL, respectively. Time to reach the mean peak plasma levels in both groups was similar, 34 minutes in healthy adults and 33 minutes in poisoned patients. Mean half-life was about hours in both groups. Some evidence suggests that loading dose followed by continuous intravenous infusion of pralidoxime chloride may maintain therapeutic levels longer than short intermittent infusion therapy. In cross-over study of seven healthy adults (18 50 years) short intravenous infusion dose of 16 mg/kg over 30 minutes was compared to an intravenous loading dose of mg/kg over 15 minutes, followed by 3.2 mg/kg/hr for 3.75 hours (for total dose of 16 mg/kg). Results showed that the mean time over which plasma levels were maintained above ug/mL was prolonged in the volunteers who received loading dose followed by continuous infusion as compared to those who received short infusion therapy (257.5 +- 50.5 min vs. 118.0 +- 52.1 min). Use of continuous intravenous infusion in adult patients with organophosphate poisoning has been described in several case reports, with and without loading doses. Infusion rates ranged from 400 600 mg/hr. In one case the blood levels were 11.6 13.7 ug /mL when given 400 mg/hr over days (measured at 5, 10 and 18 hours). In another case following an initial loading dose of 1000 mg, blood levels were 11.79 ug/mL when given 500 mg/hr and 17.26 ug/mL when given 600 mg/hr. In the latter case the pralidoxime elimination half-life was hours. In two other cases blood levels were not measured. Pralidoxime chloride is distributed throughout the extracellular water; its apparent volume of distribution at steady state has been reported to range from 0.60 to 2.7 L/kg. Pralidoxime chloride is not bound to plasma protein.Pralidoxime chloride is relatively short acting and repeated doses may be needed, unless continuous intravenous infusion is selected. Simulations suggest that after dose of 1000 mg given intravenously, concentrations fall below ug/mL in about 1.5 hours. The short duration of action of pralidoxime chloride and the necessity for repeated doses should be considered especially where there is any evidence of continuing absorption of the poison. The apparent half-life of pralidoxime chloride is 74 to 77 minutes. The drug is rapidly excreted in the urine by renal tubular secretion, partly unchanged, and partly as metabolite produced by the liver. After intramuscular administration of 1000 mg of pralidoxime chloride, the renal clearance has been reported to be 7.2 +- 2.9 mL/min/kg in healthy volunteers and 3.6 +- 1.5 mL/min/kg in organophosphate-poisoned patients.In one study of 11 organophosphate-poisoned pediatric patients (age, 0.8 to 18 years), an intravenous loading dose of 15-50 mg/kg (mean 29 mg/kg) of pralidoxime chloride followed by continuous infusion of 10-16 mg/kg/hr (mean 14 mg/kg/hr) over 12 to 43 hours (mean 27 +- hours) resulted in an average steady state plasma concentration of 22.2 mg/L (6.9 to 47.4 mg/L) and an average body clearance of 0.88 L/kg/hr (0.28 to 2.20 L/kg/hr). After the continuous infusion was discontinued, determinations of the apparent volume of distribution and half-life ranged from 1.7 to 13.8 L/kg and from 2.4 to 5.3 hours, respectively.

CONTRAINDICATIONS SECTION.

CONTRAINDICATIONS. There are no known absolute contraindications for the use of PROTOPAM Chloride (see PRECAUTIONS, Drug Interactions and DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION). Relative contraindications include known hypersensitivity to the drug and other situations in which the risk of its use clearly outweighs possible benefit.

DESCRIPTION SECTION.

DESCRIPTION. Chemical name: 2-formyl-1-methylpyridinium chloride oxime. Available in the United States as PROTOPAM Chloride for Injection (PROTOPAM Chloride), pralidoxime chloride is frequently referred to as 2-PAM Chloride.Structural formula:C7H9CIN2O M.W. 172.61Pralidoxime chloride occurs as an odorless, white, nonhygroscopic, crystalline powder which is soluble in water. Stable in air, it melts between 215o and 225o C, with decomposition.The specific activity of the drug resides in the 2-formyl-1-methylpyridinium ion and is independent of the particular salt employed. The chloride is preferred because of physiologic compatibility, excellent water solubility at all temperatures, and high potency per gram, due to its low molecular weight.Pralidoxime chloride is cholinesterase reactivator.PROTOPAM Chloride for intravenous injection or infusion is prepared by cryo-desiccation. Each vial contains 1000 mg of sterile pralidoxime chloride, and sodium hydroxide to adjust pH, to be reconstituted with 20 mL of Sterile Water for Injection, USP. The pH of the reconstituted solution is 3.5 to 4.5. Intramuscular or subcutaneous injection may be used when intravenous injection is not feasible.. PROTOPAM structural formula.

DOSAGE & ADMINISTRATION SECTION.

DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION. Organophosphate Poisoning. Treatment should include general supportive care, atropinization, and decontamination, in addition to the use of PROTOPAM Chloride. Treatment is most effective if initiated immediately after poisoning. Administration of PROTOPAM Chloride should be carried out slowly and, preferably, by infusion. If intravenous administration is not feasible, intramuscular or subcutaneous injection should be used. Generally, little is accomplished if PROTOPAM Chloride is given more than 36 hours after termination of exposure to the poison. When the poison has been ingested, it is particularly important to take into account the likelihood of continuing absorption from the lower bowel since this constitutes new exposure and fatal relapses have been reported after initial improvement. In such cases, additional doses of PROTOPAM Chloride may be needed every three to eight hours. In effect, the patient should be titrated with PROTOPAM Chloride as long as signs of poisoning recur. As in all cases of organophosphate poisoning, care should be taken to keep the patient under observation for at least 48 to 72 hours.If dermal exposure has occurred, clothing should be removed and the hair and skin washed thoroughly with sodium bicarbonate or alcohol as soon as possible. Supportive care, including airway management, respiratory and cardiovascular support, correction of metabolic abnormalities, and seizure control, may be necessary in cases of severe organophosphate poisoning.Atropine should be given as soon as possible after hypoxemia is improved. Atropine should not be given in the presence of significant hypoxia due to the risk of atropine-induced ventricular fibrillation. In adults, atropine may be given intravenously in doses of to mg. This should be repeated at 5- to 10-minute intervals until full atropinization (secretions are inhibited) or signs of atropine toxicity appear (delirium, hyperthermia, muscle twitching).Some degree of atropinization should be maintained for at least 48 hours, and until any depressed blood cholinesterase activity is reversed.Use of morphine, theophylline, aminophylline, reserpine, and phenothiazine-type tranquilizers should be avoided in patients with organophosphate poisoning (see PRECAUTIONS, Drug Interactions). Prolonged paralysis has been reported in patients when succinylcholine is given with drugs having anticholinesterase activity; therefore, it should be used with caution.After the effects of atropine become apparent, PROTOPAM Chloride may be administered.. Symptoms Of Nerve Agent And Insecticide Poisoning. PROTOPAM Chloride dosing is based, in part, on the severity of symptoms of nerve agent intoxication. These symptoms include the following:MILD symptoms:oBlurred vision and sore eyesoTeary eyesoRunny noseoIncreased salivation such as sudden droolingoChest tightness or difficulty breathingoTremors throughout the body or muscular twitchingoNausea and vomitingoInvoluntary respiratory secretionsSEVERE symptoms:oStrange or confused behavioroSevere difficulty breathing or respiratory secretionsoSevere muscular twitching and general weaknessoInvoluntary urination and defecationoConvulsionsoUnconsciousness. oBlurred vision and sore eyes. oTeary eyes. oRunny nose. oIncreased salivation such as sudden drooling. oChest tightness or difficulty breathing. oTremors throughout the body or muscular twitching. oNausea and vomiting. oInvoluntary respiratory secretions. oStrange or confused behavior. oSevere difficulty breathing or respiratory secretions. oSevere muscular twitching and general weakness. oInvoluntary urination and defecation. oConvulsions. oUnconsciousness. Symptoms in INFANTS AND YOUNG CHILDREN:. These symptoms are sometimes observed in healthy infants and young children. In this age group, these symptoms are less reliable than other symptoms listed. Symptoms must be considered collectively when nerve agent or pesticide exposure is known or suspected. Infants may become drowsy or unconscious, with muscle floppiness rather than muscle twitching, soon after exposure to nerve agents or pesticides.. ADULT DOSING. ADULT INTRAVENOUS DOSING:. Refer to the Preparation for Administration section for instructions on reconstitution and dilution of PROTOPAM Chloride that result in 10-20 mg/mL solution for intravenous infusion.Inject an initial dose of 1000 to 2000 mg of PROTOPAM Chloride, preferably as an infusion in 100 mL of normal saline, over 15- to 30-minute period. If this is not practical or if pulmonary edema is present, the dose should be given slowly (over not less than five minutes) by intravenous injection, as 50 mg/mL solution in water (e.g., 1000 mg in 20 mL). second dose of 1000 to 2000 mg may be indicated after about one hour if muscle weakness has not been relieved. Additional doses may be given every 10-12 hours if muscle weakness persists.Intravenous administration of PROTOPAM Chloride should be carried out slowly and, preferably, by continuous or intermittent infusion, since temporary worsening of cholinergic manifestations (i.e. tachycardia, cardiac arrest, laryngospasm, and muscle rigidity or paralysis) may occur if PROTOPAM Chloride is infused too rapidly. The intermittent infusion rate should not exceed 200 mg/minute. If intravenous administration is not feasible, intramuscular or subcutaneous injection should be used.Evidence suggests that loading dose followed by continuous intravenous infusion of PROTOPAM Chloride may maintain therapeutic levels longer than traditional short intermittent infusions therapy (see Pharmacokinetics).. ADULT INTRAMUSCULAR DOSING:. Refer to the Preparation for Administration section for instructions on reconstitution of PROTOPAM Chloride that result in an approximate 300 mg/mL solution for intramuscular administration.Intramuscular dosing in adults should be based on the severity of clinical symptoms.MILD SYMPTOMSoFor treatment of mild symptoms, administer 600 mg (2 mL) intramuscular dose of PROTOPAM Chloride. Wait 15 minutes for PROTOPAM Chloride to take effect.oIf, after 15 minutes, mild symptoms persist, then administer second 600 mg (2 mL) intramuscular dose of PROTOPAM Chloride.oIf, after an additional 15 minutes, mild symptoms continue to persist, third 600 mg (2 mL) dose of PROTOPAM Chloride may be administered for total cumulative dose of 1800 mg.oIf at any time after the first dose, the patient develops severe symptoms, administer two additional 600 mg intramuscular doses in rapid succession for total cumulative dose of 1800 mg of PROTOPAM Chloride.SEVERE SYMPTOMSoFor treatment of severe symptoms, administer three 600 mg intramuscular doses (3 doses of mL each) in rapid succession for total dose of 1800 mg of PROTOPAM Chloride.PERSISTENT SYMPTOMSoIf symptoms persist after administering the complete 1800 mg regimen (3 injections of 600 mg each), the series may be repeated beginning approximately hour after administration of the last injection.. oFor treatment of mild symptoms, administer 600 mg (2 mL) intramuscular dose of PROTOPAM Chloride. Wait 15 minutes for PROTOPAM Chloride to take effect.. oIf, after 15 minutes, mild symptoms persist, then administer second 600 mg (2 mL) intramuscular dose of PROTOPAM Chloride.. oIf, after an additional 15 minutes, mild symptoms continue to persist, third 600 mg (2 mL) dose of PROTOPAM Chloride may be administered for total cumulative dose of 1800 mg.. oIf at any time after the first dose, the patient develops severe symptoms, administer two additional 600 mg intramuscular doses in rapid succession for total cumulative dose of 1800 mg of PROTOPAM Chloride.. oFor treatment of severe symptoms, administer three 600 mg intramuscular doses (3 doses of mL each) in rapid succession for total dose of 1800 mg of PROTOPAM Chloride.. oIf symptoms persist after administering the complete 1800 mg regimen (3 injections of 600 mg each), the series may be repeated beginning approximately hour after administration of the last injection.. PEDIATRIC DOSING (FOR PATIENTS 16 YEARS AND UNDER). PEDIATRIC INTRAVENOUS DOSING:. Refer to the Preparation for Administration section for instructions on reconstitution and dilution of PROTOPAM Chloride that result in 10-20 mg/mL solution for intravenous infusion.PROTOPAM Chloride can be given as intermittent intravenous infusions or as loading dose followed by continuous intravenous infusion, depending upon the patients clinical condition. The specific dose given should depend upon the severity of the symptoms.. Loading Dose Following By Continuous Infusion:. Administer loading dose of 20-50 mg/kg (not to exceed 2000 mg/dose) over 15-30 minutes followed by continuous infusion of 10-20 mg/kg/hour.. Intermittent Infusion Dosing:. Administer an initial intermittent infusion of 20-50 mg/kg (not to exceed 2000 mg/dose) over 15-30 minutes. second dose of 20-50 mg/kg may be indicated after about one hour if muscle weakness has not been relieved. Repeat dosing is permissible every 10-12 hours as needed.If it is not practical to administer intermittent or continuous intravenous infusions, or if pulmonary edema is present, the 20-50 mg/kg dose should be given slowly (over not less than five minutes) by intravenous injection as 50 mg/mL solution in water (see Preparation for Administration section). Additional doses may be given every 10-12 hours if muscle weakness persists.. PEDIATRIC INTRAMUSCULAR DOSING:. Refer to the Preparation for Administration section for instructions on reconstitution of PROTOPAM Chloride that result in an approximate 300 mg/mL solution for intramuscular administration.Intramuscular injections in children should be administered in the anterolateral aspect of the thigh to avoid the nerve, artery and vein, as well as the femur.Pharmacokinetic modeling using published data from the scientific literature was conducted to derive intramuscular dosing recommendations in the pediatric population. The specific intramuscular dose of PROTOPAM Chloride should depend upon the severity of the symptoms.MILD SYMPTOMSoFor the treatment of mild symptoms, administer weight-appropriate intramuscular dose (see Table below) of PROTOPAM Chloride. Wait 15 minutes for PROTOPAM Chloride to take effect.oIf, after 15 minutes, mild symptoms persist, then administer second weight-appropriate intramuscular dose of PROTOPAM Chloride.oIf after an additional 15 minutes, mild symptoms continue to persist, third weight-appropriate intramuscular dose of PROTOPAM Chloride may be administered.oThe three PROTOPAM Chloride injections together are considered single course of treatment, and the total amount of PROTOPAM Chloride administered per course of treatment (i.e., weight-appropriate injections) should not exceed the total amounts listed in Table below.oIf at any time after the first dose, the patient develops severe symptoms, administer two additional weight-appropriate intramuscular doses of PROTOPAM Chloride in rapid succession.SEVERE SYMPTOMSoFor treatment of severe symptoms, administer the weight-appropriate intramuscular dose (see Table below) of PROTOPAM Chloride Injection as three injections, in rapid succession, into the patients anterolateral thigh (see Table below).PERSISTENT SYMPTOMSoIf symptoms persist after administering complete course (3 injections of the weight-appropriate dose each), the series may be repeated beginning approximately hour after administration of the last injection.Table 1: Pediatric Intramuscular Dosing RecommendationsDosing is based on an approximate 300 mg/mL solution. Weight in kgDose Per InjectionDuring the treatment of mild symptoms, if at any time after the first dose, the patient develops severe symptoms, administer two additional weight-appropriate intramuscular doses of PROTOPAM Chloride in rapid succession.Total Dose per Three-Injection CourseAdditional courses of PROTOPAM Chloride may be administered beginning one hour after the last injection. single course consists of three separate, weight-appropriate injections, administered either with 15 minute inter-injection observation periods for patients with mild symptoms, or all in rapid succession for patients with severe symptoms.< 40kg15 mg/kg45 mg/kg>= 40 kgWeight of 40 kg corresponds to approximately the 50th percentile for 12 year old child per the weight-for-age percentile growth charts published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in 2000. Use Adult Dosing RecommendationsAdult Dose Per Injection is 600 mg; Total Adult Dose per Three-Injection Course is 1800 mg. Use Adult Dosing Recommendations. oFor the treatment of mild symptoms, administer weight-appropriate intramuscular dose (see Table below) of PROTOPAM Chloride. Wait 15 minutes for PROTOPAM Chloride to take effect.. oIf, after 15 minutes, mild symptoms persist, then administer second weight-appropriate intramuscular dose of PROTOPAM Chloride.. oIf after an additional 15 minutes, mild symptoms continue to persist, third weight-appropriate intramuscular dose of PROTOPAM Chloride may be administered.. oThe three PROTOPAM Chloride injections together are considered single course of treatment, and the total amount of PROTOPAM Chloride administered per course of treatment (i.e., weight-appropriate injections) should not exceed the total amounts listed in Table below.. oIf at any time after the first dose, the patient develops severe symptoms, administer two additional weight-appropriate intramuscular doses of PROTOPAM Chloride in rapid succession.. oFor treatment of severe symptoms, administer the weight-appropriate intramuscular dose (see Table below) of PROTOPAM Chloride Injection as three injections, in rapid succession, into the patients anterolateral thigh (see Table below).. oIf symptoms persist after administering complete course (3 injections of the weight-appropriate dose each), the series may be repeated beginning approximately hour after administration of the last injection.. Anticholinesterase Overdosage. As an antagonist to such anticholinesterases as neostigmine, pyridostigmine, and ambenonium, which are used in the treatment of myasthenia gravis, PROTOPAM Chloride may be given in dosage of 1000 to 2000 mg intravenously followed by increments of 250 mg every five minutes.. Preparation for Administration. PROTOPAM Chloride is supplied as 1000 mg single-dose vials for injection.For INTRAVENOUS infusion: Reconstitute single PROTOPAM Chloride 1000 mg vial by adding 20 mL of Sterile Water for Injection, USP, which results in 50 mg/mL concentration.The solution should further be diluted with Normal Saline for Injection, USP to achieve concentration of 10 to 20 mg/mL (e.g. 1000 mg in 100 mL or 2000 mg in 100 mL).For fluid restricted patients or for rapid administration (over at least min), maximum concentration of 50 mg/mL may be used.For INTRAMUSCULAR injection: Reconstitute single PROTOPAM Chloride 1000 mg vial by adding 3.3 mL of Sterile Water for Injection, USP for an approximate concentration of 300 mg/mL.Parenteral drug products should be inspected visually for particulate matter and discoloration prior to administration, whenever solution and container permit.Discard unused solution after dose has been withdrawn.

DRUG ABUSE AND DEPENDENCE SECTION.

DRUG ABUSE AND DEPENDENCE. PROTOPAM Chloride is not subject to abuse and possesses no known potential for dependence.

DRUG INTERACTIONS SECTION.

Drug Interactions. When atropine and pralidoxime chloride are used together, the signs of atropinization (flushing, mydriasis, tachycardia, dryness of the mouth and nose) may occur earlier than might be expected when atropine is used alone. This is especially true if the total dose of atropine has been large and the administration of pralidoxime chloride has been delayed.The following precautions should be kept in mind in the treatment of anticholinesterase poisoning, although they do not bear directly on the use of pralidoxime chloride: since barbiturates are potentiated by the anticholinesterases, they should be used cautiously in the treatment of convulsions; morphine, theophylline, aminophylline, reserpine, and phenothiazine-type tranquilizers should be avoided in patients with organophosphate poisoning. Prolonged paralysis has been reported in patients when succinylcholine is given with drugs having anticholinesterase activity; therefore, it should be used with caution.

GENERAL PRECAUTIONS SECTION.

General. PROTOPAM Chloride has been well tolerated in most cases, but it must be remembered that the desperate condition of the organophosphate-poisoned patient will generally mask such minor signs and symptoms as have been noted in normal subjects.Intravenous administration of PROTOPAM Chloride should be carried out slowly and, preferably, by continuous or intermittent infusion, since temporary worsening of cholinergic manifestations (i.e. tachycardia, cardiac arrest, laryngospasm, and muscle rigidity or paralysis) may occur if PROTOPAM Chloride is infused too rapidly. The intermittent infusion rate should not exceed 200 mg/minute. If intravenous administration is not feasible, intramuscular or subcutaneous injection should be used (see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION).PROTOPAM Chloride should be used with great caution in treating organophosphate overdosage in cases of myasthenia gravis since it may precipitate myasthenic crisis.Because pralidoxime is excreted in the urine, decrease in renal function will result in increased blood levels of the drug. Thus, the dosage of PROTOPAM Chloride should be reduced in the presence of renal insufficiency.

GERIATRIC USE SECTION.

Geriatric Use. Clinical studies of PROTOPAM Chloride did not include sufficient numbers of subjects aged 65 and over to determine whether they respond differently from younger subjects. Other reported clinical experience has not identified differences in responses between the elderly and younger patients. In general, dose selection for an elderly patient should be cautious, usually starting at the low end of the dosing range, reflecting the greater frequency of decreased hepatic, renal, or cardiac function, and of concomitant disease or other drug therapy.

HOW SUPPLIED SECTION.

HOW SUPPLIED. NDC 60977-141-01--Hospital Package: This contains six 20 mL vials of g each of sterile PROTOPAM Chloride (pralidoxime chloride) for Injection white to off-white porous cake, without diluent or syringe.When necessary, sodium hydroxide is added during processing to adjust the pH.. Storage. Store at 20-25C (68-77F), excursions permitted to 15-30C (59-86F) [see USP Controlled Room Temperature].

INDICATIONS & USAGE SECTION.

INDICATIONS AND USAGE. PROTOPAM Chloride is indicated as an antidote:1.In the treatment of poisoning due to those pesticides and chemicals (e.g., nerve agents) of the organophosphate class which have anticholinesterase activity and2.In the control of overdosage by anticholinesterase drugs used in the treatment of myasthenia gravis.The principal indications for the use of PROTOPAM Chloride are muscle weakness and respiratory depression. In severe poisoning, respiratory depression may be due to muscle weakness.. 1.In the treatment of poisoning due to those pesticides and chemicals (e.g., nerve agents) of the organophosphate class which have anticholinesterase activity and. 2.In the control of overdosage by anticholinesterase drugs used in the treatment of myasthenia gravis.

LABORATORY TESTS SECTION.

Laboratory Tests. Treatment of organophosphate poisoning should be instituted without waiting for the results of laboratory tests. Red blood cell, plasma cholinesterase, and urinary paranitrophenol measurements (in the case of parathion exposure) may be helpful in confirming the diagnosis and following the course of the illness, although such tests may be normal in the face of clinically significant organophosphate poisoning. reduction in red blood cell cholinesterase concentration to below 50% of normal has been seen only with organophosphate ester poisoning.

NURSING MOTHERS SECTION.

Nursing Mothers. It is not known whether this drug is excreted in human milk. Because many drugs are excreted in human milk, caution should be exercised when pralidoxime chloride is administered to nursing woman.

OVERDOSAGE SECTION.

OVERDOSAGE. Manifestations of Overdosage. Observed in normal subjects only: dizziness, blurred vision, diplopia, headache, impaired accommodation, nausea, slight tachycardia. In therapy, it has been difficult to differentiate side effects due to the drug from those due to the effects of the poison.

PACKAGE LABEL.PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL.

PACKAGE LABEL Principal Display Panel. Container Label Container Label NDC 60977-141-27Protopam Chloride(pralidoxime chloride) for injection1 Single Dose VialRx onlyFOR INTRAVENOUS INJECTION;may be given subcutaneously orintramuscularly if this route is not feasible.Prepare injection by adding20 mL of Sterile Water forInjection, USP.Usual Dosage: gSee accompanying descriptiveliterature. Discard unused solutionafter dose have been withdrawn.Prepared by cryodesiccation.esiMfd. for Baxter Healthcare Corp. Deerfield, IL 60015 USAby: Baxter Pharmaceutical Solutions, LLCBloomington, IN 47403460-496-01(01)003609771412753-942-233Lot:Exp:Carton Label Carton Label NDC 60977-141-01Protopam Chloride(pralidoxime chloride) for injection1 gRx only6 1 Single Dose VialsFOR INTRAVENOUS INJECION;may also be given by intramuscular or subcutaneousinjection if the intravenous route is not feasible.esiManufactured forBaxter Healthcare CorporationDeerfield, IL 60015 USAby: Baxter Pharmaceutical Solutions, LLCBloomington, IN 47403Lot:Exp:NDC 60977-141-01Protopam Chloride(pralidoxime chloride) for injection1 g6 1 Single Dose VialsN3 60977 14101 5Enclosed in this package are six vials, each containing g of sterileProtopam Chloride (pralidoxime chloride). When necessary, either 1Nhydrochloric acid or 1N sodium hydroxide may be added duringprocessing to adjust the pH. Prepare injection by adding 20 mL ofSterile Water for Injection, USP (not supplied in this package).Usual Dosage: gSee accompanying descriptive literature.Discard unused solution after dose has been withdrawn.Prepared by cryodesiccation.Enclosed product circular for human use.Store at 20-25C (68-77F) [see USP Controlled Room Temperature].Baxter and Protopam are trademarks of Baxter International Inc. or its subsidiaries.460-497-003-809-1808NDC 60977-141-01Protopam Chloride(pralidoxime chloride) for injection1 g6 1 Single Dose VialsFOR INTRAVENOUS INJECTION;may also be given by intramuscularor subcutaneous injectionif the intravenous route is not feasible.esiManufactured forBaxter Healthcare CorporationDeerfield, IL 60015 USAby: Baxter Pharmaceutical Solutions LLCBloomington, IN 47403Serialization LabelPROTOPAM Chloride(pralidoxime chloride) for injection1 gramStore at 20 25C (68 77F)EXP 06 2023 LOT 933462Bar code (17) 230600 (10) 933462Bar code(01) 0360977 14101 (30) 0276Baxter Healthcare CorporationBaxter Pharmaceutical Solutions LLCBloomington, IN 47403NDC 60977-141-0146 Packs, each containing6 20 mL VialsBar code(01) 0360977 14101 0(21) 000000000493(17) 230616(10) 93346207-06-77-165 Bar code20-4682-233. Container Label. Carton Label. Representative Protopam Serialization Label 60977-141-01.

PEDIATRIC USE SECTION.

Pediatric Use. There are no adequate and well-controlled clinical trials that establish the effectiveness of pralidoxime chloride in pediatric patients. Efficacy has been extrapolated from the adult population and is supported by nonclinical studies, pharmacokinetic studies in adults and experience in the pediatric population (see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION). As in adults, laryngospasm, cardiac arrest, tachycardia, and muscle rigidity or paralysis have been reported following rapid intravenous injection. Muscle fasciculations, apnea, and convulsions have also been reported.

PHARMACOKINETICS SECTION.

Pharmacokinetics. Animal studies suggest that the minimum therapeutic concentration of pralidoxime in plasma is ug/mL; this level is reached in about 16 minutes after single injection of 600 mg pralidoxime chloride. In one study of healthy adult volunteers and patients self-poisoned with organophosphate compounds, single intramuscular injection of 1000 mg of pralidoxime chloride resulted in mean peak plasma levels of 7.5 +- 1.7 ug/mL and 9.9 +- 2.4 ug/mL, respectively. Time to reach the mean peak plasma levels in both groups was similar, 34 minutes in healthy adults and 33 minutes in poisoned patients. Mean half-life was about hours in both groups. Some evidence suggests that loading dose followed by continuous intravenous infusion of pralidoxime chloride may maintain therapeutic levels longer than short intermittent infusion therapy. In cross-over study of seven healthy adults (18 50 years) short intravenous infusion dose of 16 mg/kg over 30 minutes was compared to an intravenous loading dose of mg/kg over 15 minutes, followed by 3.2 mg/kg/hr for 3.75 hours (for total dose of 16 mg/kg). Results showed that the mean time over which plasma levels were maintained above ug/mL was prolonged in the volunteers who received loading dose followed by continuous infusion as compared to those who received short infusion therapy (257.5 +- 50.5 min vs. 118.0 +- 52.1 min). Use of continuous intravenous infusion in adult patients with organophosphate poisoning has been described in several case reports, with and without loading doses. Infusion rates ranged from 400 600 mg/hr. In one case the blood levels were 11.6 13.7 ug /mL when given 400 mg/hr over days (measured at 5, 10 and 18 hours). In another case following an initial loading dose of 1000 mg, blood levels were 11.79 ug/mL when given 500 mg/hr and 17.26 ug/mL when given 600 mg/hr. In the latter case the pralidoxime elimination half-life was hours. In two other cases blood levels were not measured. Pralidoxime chloride is distributed throughout the extracellular water; its apparent volume of distribution at steady state has been reported to range from 0.60 to 2.7 L/kg. Pralidoxime chloride is not bound to plasma protein.Pralidoxime chloride is relatively short acting and repeated doses may be needed, unless continuous intravenous infusion is selected. Simulations suggest that after dose of 1000 mg given intravenously, concentrations fall below ug/mL in about 1.5 hours. The short duration of action of pralidoxime chloride and the necessity for repeated doses should be considered especially where there is any evidence of continuing absorption of the poison. The apparent half-life of pralidoxime chloride is 74 to 77 minutes. The drug is rapidly excreted in the urine by renal tubular secretion, partly unchanged, and partly as metabolite produced by the liver. After intramuscular administration of 1000 mg of pralidoxime chloride, the renal clearance has been reported to be 7.2 +- 2.9 mL/min/kg in healthy volunteers and 3.6 +- 1.5 mL/min/kg in organophosphate-poisoned patients.In one study of 11 organophosphate-poisoned pediatric patients (age, 0.8 to 18 years), an intravenous loading dose of 15-50 mg/kg (mean 29 mg/kg) of pralidoxime chloride followed by continuous infusion of 10-16 mg/kg/hr (mean 14 mg/kg/hr) over 12 to 43 hours (mean 27 +- hours) resulted in an average steady state plasma concentration of 22.2 mg/L (6.9 to 47.4 mg/L) and an average body clearance of 0.88 L/kg/hr (0.28 to 2.20 L/kg/hr). After the continuous infusion was discontinued, determinations of the apparent volume of distribution and half-life ranged from 1.7 to 13.8 L/kg and from 2.4 to 5.3 hours, respectively.

PRECAUTIONS SECTION.

PRECAUTIONS. General. PROTOPAM Chloride has been well tolerated in most cases, but it must be remembered that the desperate condition of the organophosphate-poisoned patient will generally mask such minor signs and symptoms as have been noted in normal subjects.Intravenous administration of PROTOPAM Chloride should be carried out slowly and, preferably, by continuous or intermittent infusion, since temporary worsening of cholinergic manifestations (i.e. tachycardia, cardiac arrest, laryngospasm, and muscle rigidity or paralysis) may occur if PROTOPAM Chloride is infused too rapidly. The intermittent infusion rate should not exceed 200 mg/minute. If intravenous administration is not feasible, intramuscular or subcutaneous injection should be used (see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION).PROTOPAM Chloride should be used with great caution in treating organophosphate overdosage in cases of myasthenia gravis since it may precipitate myasthenic crisis.Because pralidoxime is excreted in the urine, decrease in renal function will result in increased blood levels of the drug. Thus, the dosage of PROTOPAM Chloride should be reduced in the presence of renal insufficiency.. Laboratory Tests. Treatment of organophosphate poisoning should be instituted without waiting for the results of laboratory tests. Red blood cell, plasma cholinesterase, and urinary paranitrophenol measurements (in the case of parathion exposure) may be helpful in confirming the diagnosis and following the course of the illness, although such tests may be normal in the face of clinically significant organophosphate poisoning. reduction in red blood cell cholinesterase concentration to below 50% of normal has been seen only with organophosphate ester poisoning.. Drug Interactions. When atropine and pralidoxime chloride are used together, the signs of atropinization (flushing, mydriasis, tachycardia, dryness of the mouth and nose) may occur earlier than might be expected when atropine is used alone. This is especially true if the total dose of atropine has been large and the administration of pralidoxime chloride has been delayed.The following precautions should be kept in mind in the treatment of anticholinesterase poisoning, although they do not bear directly on the use of pralidoxime chloride: since barbiturates are potentiated by the anticholinesterases, they should be used cautiously in the treatment of convulsions; morphine, theophylline, aminophylline, reserpine, and phenothiazine-type tranquilizers should be avoided in patients with organophosphate poisoning. Prolonged paralysis has been reported in patients when succinylcholine is given with drugs having anticholinesterase activity; therefore, it should be used with caution.. Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility. Because pralidoxime chloride is indicated for short-term emergency use only, no investigations of its potential for carcinogenesis, mutagenesis, or impairment of fertility have been conducted by the manufacturer, or reported in the literature.. Pregnancy. Teratogenic Effects:. Animal reproduction studies have not been conducted with pralidoxime chloride. It is also not known whether pralidoxime chloride can cause fetal harm when administered to pregnant woman or can affect reproduction capacity. Pralidoxime chloride should be given to pregnant woman only if clearly needed.. Nursing Mothers. It is not known whether this drug is excreted in human milk. Because many drugs are excreted in human milk, caution should be exercised when pralidoxime chloride is administered to nursing woman.. Pediatric Use. There are no adequate and well-controlled clinical trials that establish the effectiveness of pralidoxime chloride in pediatric patients. Efficacy has been extrapolated from the adult population and is supported by nonclinical studies, pharmacokinetic studies in adults and experience in the pediatric population (see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION). As in adults, laryngospasm, cardiac arrest, tachycardia, and muscle rigidity or paralysis have been reported following rapid intravenous injection. Muscle fasciculations, apnea, and convulsions have also been reported.. Geriatric Use. Clinical studies of PROTOPAM Chloride did not include sufficient numbers of subjects aged 65 and over to determine whether they respond differently from younger subjects. Other reported clinical experience has not identified differences in responses between the elderly and younger patients. In general, dose selection for an elderly patient should be cautious, usually starting at the low end of the dosing range, reflecting the greater frequency of decreased hepatic, renal, or cardiac function, and of concomitant disease or other drug therapy.

PREGNANCY SECTION.

Pregnancy. Teratogenic Effects:. Animal reproduction studies have not been conducted with pralidoxime chloride. It is also not known whether pralidoxime chloride can cause fetal harm when administered to pregnant woman or can affect reproduction capacity. Pralidoxime chloride should be given to pregnant woman only if clearly needed.

SPL UNCLASSIFIED SECTION.

Manifestations of Overdosage. Observed in normal subjects only: dizziness, blurred vision, diplopia, headache, impaired accommodation, nausea, slight tachycardia. In therapy, it has been difficult to differentiate side effects due to the drug from those due to the effects of the poison.

STORAGE AND HANDLING SECTION.

Storage. Store at 20-25C (68-77F), excursions permitted to 15-30C (59-86F) [see USP Controlled Room Temperature].

TERATOGENIC EFFECTS SECTION.

Teratogenic Effects:. Animal reproduction studies have not been conducted with pralidoxime chloride. It is also not known whether pralidoxime chloride can cause fetal harm when administered to pregnant woman or can affect reproduction capacity. Pralidoxime chloride should be given to pregnant woman only if clearly needed.

WARNINGS SECTION.

WARNINGS. PROTOPAM Chloride is not effective in the treatment of poisoning due to phosphorus, inorganic phosphates, or organophosphates not having anticholinesterase activity.PROTOPAM Chloride is not indicated as an antidote for intoxication by pesticides of the carbamate class since it may increase the toxicity of carbaryl.