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
