Continuous naloxone infusion in pediatric narcotic overdose

Am J Dis Child. 1984 Oct;138(10):944-6. doi: 10.1001/archpedi.1984.02140480046014.

Abstract

A 31-month-old girl required constant intravenous (IV) infusion of naloxone hydrochloride to treat codeine-induced respiratory and CNS depression. The infusion rate was 0.4 mg/hr (27 micrograms/kg/hr) over nine hours, without apparent side effects or evidence of toxic effects, for a total naloxone hydrochloride dose of 4.1 mg (280 micrograms/kg). Constant naloxone hydrochloride infusion at an initial rate of 0.4 mg/hr in pediatric narcotic poisoning should be considered if the patient responds inadequately to an initial 0.01-mg/kg bolus, requires repeated administration to reverse narcotic-induced effects, or has ingested long-acting agents. Continuous IV naloxone infusion is a convenient, safe, and effective method to treat narcotic overdose.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Acetaminophen / poisoning
  • Arousal / drug effects
  • Child, Preschool
  • Codeine / poisoning
  • Drug Administration Schedule
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Infusions, Parenteral
  • Naloxone / administration & dosage
  • Naloxone / therapeutic use*
  • Narcotics / poisoning*
  • Respiration / drug effects

Substances

  • Narcotics
  • Acetaminophen
  • Naloxone
  • Codeine