1. What is Niketamid?
Niketamid contains the active ingredient Niketamid at a concentration of 250mg/ml. It is a product of Vĩnh Phúc Pharmaceutical Joint Stock Company (VINPHACO) in Vietnam, formulated as an injectable solution and packaged in boxes of 5 ampoules x 1ml.
The active ingredient Nikethamide stimulates the central nervous system, particularly the medulla oblongata, and especially the respiratory and circulatory centers. As a result, Nikethamid increases the respiratory rate, enhances the sensitivity of the respiratory center to CO2, and increases cardiac contractility, heart rate, and slightly raises blood pressure. However, at high doses, Nikethamid stimulates the entire central nervous system and can lead to seizures.
2. Indications and Contraindications of Nikethamid
Nikethamid is indicated in the following cases:
Patients in shock, suffocation, poisoning, arrhythmia, respiratory failure, and circulatory failure during recovery from illness;
Drug poisoning or when discontinuing the use of cardiac glycosides.
Previously, Nikethamid was used as a respiratory stimulant, but its use for this indication is no longer recommended due to the therapeutic dose being close to the toxic dose, particularly the risk of causing seizures.
Contraindications for the use of Nikethamid include:
Patients with a history of porphyrin metabolism disorders;
Patients with epilepsy or a history of other seizure disorders;
Patients with cerebral edema, cerebrovascular accidents, or head trauma;
Patients with severe acute bronchial asthma or diseases causing airway obstruction;
Uncontrolled severe hypertension or ischemic heart disease;
Patients with hyperthyroidism or histiocytic tumors.
3. Dosage and Administration of Nikethamid
Nikethamid is formulated as an injectable solution, so it is administered subcutaneously or intravenously by healthcare professionals (nurses) in a hospital setting.
The recommended dosage of Nikethamid is as follows:
Adults: 1-2 ml per dose;
Children: 0.1 ml/kg per dose.
4. Side Effects of Nikethamid
During the use of Nikethamid, patients may experience the following unwanted side effects:
- Nausea
- Seizures
- Restlessness
- Dizziness
- Vasoconstriction
- Arrhythmia
- Injection site irritation
- Eye irritation
- Shortness of breath, respiratory issues
If any unusual symptoms are considered side effects of Nikethamid, patients should promptly inform their doctor or pharmacist for appropriate and timely intervention.
5. Drug Interactions of Nikethamid
When used concurrently, Nikethamid can enhance the effects of sympathomimetic drugs or MAO inhibitors.
Nikethamid increases the risk of arrhythmias when used simultaneously with certain anesthetics (such as Halothane, Enflurane, Isoflurane).
Nikethamid can mask the effects of neuromuscular blocking agents.
The risk of seizures increases when Nikethamid is used concurrently with Bupropion
6. Precautions When Using Nikethamid
Patients using Nikethamid must be particularly cautious if they have a history of gastrointestinal bleeding due to peptic ulcers, coagulation disorders, or are currently being treated with anticoagulants or antiplatelet drugs, especially elderly patients;
Be cautious when combining Nikethamid with diuretics and low-dose Methotrexate (under 15 mg/week);
Absolutely do not combine Nikethamid with high-dose Methotrexate; Be cautious when using Nikethamid in patients with a history of allergies to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs);
Patients using Nikethamid may experience unwanted symptoms such as headaches or dizziness, which can affect concentration, so caution is needed when driving and operating complex machinery;
Absolutely do not use Nikethamid for pregnant women and during breastfeeding.
This product should be stored in a tightly sealed container, at a temperature below 30°C. Do not store Nikethamid in damp areas or places prone to impact. Check the expiration date on the packaging before using Nikethamid; Like other medications, Nikethamid should be kept out of reach of children.
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