Naloxone for Clonidine Overdose

Indication: Altered mental status, CNS depression or respiratory depression due to clonidine overdose

Dosing:

   Adults: 0.4 mg - 2 mg IV every 2 minutes. Max total dose of 10 mg.

   Pediatrics: 10 mg IV push all at one time with a flush after

Mechanism:  It is believed that alpha-2 agonist may increase endogenous opioid release. Endogenous opioids modulate basal sympathetic outflow. Blocking them may improve CNS and respiratory depression.

Pharmacokinetics & Dynamics: 

   Onset: 2-3 minutes

   Duration: ~30-45 minutes

   Half-life: ~30-90 minutes

Take Home: Naloxone may improve CNS depression and respiratory depression. Most strongly supported in pediatric cases. Ensure a therapeutic dose is given and if improvement does not occur move on to other cares.



- Kenett Winters PharmD @MKenettWinters



#Naloxone #Clonidine #Overdose #toxicology #management