What antidotes can be used for organophosphate poisoning?
Nov 27, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Shuwen
Introduction
Organophosphorus poisoning can be treated with antidotes such as cholinesterase reactivators, symptomatic antagonists, compound formulations, and other methods. Patients should promptly be removed from the site of exposure to prevent further absorption of the toxin. Under medical supervision, large-scale emesis and gastric lavage should be performed. Additionally, laxatives such as soapy water or castor oil may be used to accelerate the elimination of the poison.
Organophosphorus poisoning can be treated through various methods, including cholinesterase reactivators, symptomatic antagonists, compound formulations, and other approaches.
1. Cholinesterase Reactivators
Commonly used cholinesterase reactivators include pralidoxime chloride, pralidoxime iodide, and obidoxime. These drugs can detach the phosphorus from the esteratic site of phosphorylated cholinesterase, thereby restoring cholinesterase activity and alleviating organophosphorus poisoning.
2. Symptomatic Antagonists
Symptomatic antagonists mainly include atropine and long-acting anticholinergics such as penehyclidine. Atropine helps counteract symptoms but does not fundamentally cure organophosphorus poisoning. The safe dosage of atropine is close to its toxic dose; improper monitoring may easily lead to atropine toxicity. Therefore, medication must be administered under a physician's guidance.
3. Induced Vomiting and Gastric Lavage
Patients with organophosphorus poisoning should promptly leave the contaminated environment to prevent further absorption of toxins. Pesticide residues on the body should be removed as soon as possible—for example, by rapidly washing the skin and removing contaminated clothing. Under medical supervision, large-volume induced vomiting and gastric lavage should be performed promptly to alleviate adverse symptoms of organophosphorus poisoning.
In addition, laxatives such as soapy water or castor oil may also be used to accelerate toxin elimination.
