Droperidol Intravenous for Adults

Who can administer

Administration RESTRICTED - see Appendix 1

Important information

• Contraindicated in patients with known or suspected prolonged QT interval
• Avoid use with medications which also cause QTc prolongation - examples include: macrolide antibiotics (e.g. clarithromycin), fluoroquinolone antibiotics (eg ciprofloxacin), antihistamines, certain anti-arryhythmics, methadone, pentamidine
• Cardiovascular monitoring required (see monitoring requirements below)

Available preparations

Droperidol (Panpharma) 2.5mg per 1mL ampoule (unlicensed)

Reconstitution

Already in solution

Draw up using a 5 micron filter needle

Methods of intravenous administration

Slow intravenous injection

• Administer over at least 3 minutes ^{(ref 1)}

Dose in adults

Prevention and treatment of post-operative nausea and vomiting (PONV)

• Adults: 0.625 to 1.25mg (see also further information)
• Elderly: maximum 0.625mg
• Renal/hepatic impairment: maximum 0.625mg (caution advised in renal and hepatic impairment)
• Administration of droperidol is recommended 30 minutes before the anticipated end of surgery
• Repeat doses may be given every 6 hours as required

Monitoring

• Continuous pulse oximetry should be performed in patients with known or suspected risk of ventricular arrhythmia and should continue for 30 minutes following single intravenous administration ^{(ref 1)}
• Monitor blood pressure and heart rate ^{(ref 1)}

Further information

• The manufacturers suggest that droperidol may be added to PCA. However, this is not practice within GUH. See SPC for further details

Storage

Store below 25⁰C

References

Xomolix SPC 9th Nov 2020

1: Medusa http://medusa.wales.nhs.uk/ accessed online 23rd Feb 2023

Therapeutic classification

Anti-emetic, Butyrophenone neuroleptic