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

BNF
CNS