Introduction

Doxapram (DOX-a-pram)

Treats breathing problems after surgery or drug overdose. Also used to treat breathing problems caused by certain types of lung disease.

Brand Name(s)

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

Dopram

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to doxapram. Your child should not receive this medicine if your child is less than one month old. You should not use this medicine if you have had a recent head injury or if you have epilepsy, seizures, asthma, severe high blood pressure, or severe heart disease.

How to Use This Medicine

Injectable

• Your doctor will prescribe your exact dose and tell you how often it should be given. This medicine is given through a needle placed in one of your veins.
• A nurse or other trained health professional will give you this medicine.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are using MAO inhibitor medicine such as Eldepryl®, Marplan®, Nardil®, or Parnate®. Tell your doctor if you are using muscle relaxants.
• Make sure your doctor knows if you have recently had surgery or anesthesia. Tell your doctor if you are using any medicine that raises your blood pressure, treats nasal congestion, treats a severe allergic reaction, or makes you less sleepy.

Warnings While Using This Medicine

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breast feeding. Tell your doctor if you have an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroid) or an adrenal gland tumor (pheochromocytoma).

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing.
• Blurred vision.
• Chest pain, tightness in your chest, trouble breathing, or rapid breathing.
• High fever.
• Pounding, fast, or uneven heartbeat.
• Seizures or movements you cannot control.
• Unusual bleeding, bruising, or weakness.

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Confusion, headache, or dizziness.
• Cough or hiccups.
• Feeling of warmth, burning, or hot sensation.
• Increased sweating.
• Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.
• Red skin rash.
• Urgent need to urinate or to pass stools.

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088