FOMEPIZOLE sulfate, 5mg/ml, 20ml, amp
Valid Article
FOMEPIZOLE sulfate
Full Name
Synonym: 4-methylpyrazole
- In the WHO list of Essential Medicines 2023 (Complementary List)
Therapeutic Action
Competitive inhibitor of alcohol dehydrogenase (DHA)
The DHA enzyme catalyses the first step in the metabolism of ethylene glycol and methanol in the liver. Fomepizole treatment blocks the formation of the toxic metabolites of ethylene glycol and methanol and induces a prolongation of their plasma half-life.
Indications
Antidote for methanol poisoning
Especially indicated in contexts without dialysis ability or in contexts where alcohol is prohibited (such as Muslim regions).
Remark: Ethanol is also indicated in the treatment of methanol toxicity but in many Muslim countries it cannot be used as treatment.
Instructions for use
Must be given as IV infusion in 0.9% NaCl or 5% dextrose.
- Each ampoule of 20 ml contains 160 mg fomepizole sulphate, equivalent to 100 mg fomepizole.
- Each ml contains 8 mg fomepizole sulphate, equivalent to 5 mg fomepizole.
The mechanism of action of fomepizole is similar to ethanol. Nevertheless, its action is more potent and it does not cause hypoglycaemia, sedation or inebriation.
Fomepizole is easier to administer than ethanol (dose based on patient weight). It does not require monitoring of serum concentrations, and in selected cases, fomepizole can postpone dialysis needs or even make it unnecessary.
Precautions for Use
Do not administer undiluted or as a bolus.
Storage
- Below 25ºC
- After dilution, use the solution immediately.