Fomepizole

Fomepizole is a medication primarily used as an antidote in ethylene glycol and methanol poisoning. It is a competitive inhibitor of the enzyme alcohol dehydrogenase, which is found in the liver and is necessary for the metabolism of ethanol and other alcohol substances.

Mechanism of Action

Fomepizole works by inhibiting alcohol dehydrogenase, an enzyme that is crucial in the metabolism of toxic alcohols. By blocking this enzyme, fomepizole prevents the formation of harmful metabolites that can cause metabolic acidosis and organ damage.

Uses

Fomepizole is primarily used in the treatment of poisoning by ethylene glycol (found in antifreeze) and methanol (found in solvents, paints, and fuels). These substances are metabolized by the body into toxic compounds that can cause severe metabolic acidosis, kidney failure, and blindness. Fomepizole can prevent these complications by inhibiting the metabolism of these toxic alcohols.

Side Effects

Common side effects of fomepizole include headache, nausea, dizziness, and an unpleasant taste in the mouth. In rare cases, it can cause allergic reactions, including skin rash, itching, and swelling.

Dosage and Administration

Fomepizole is administered intravenously, usually in a hospital setting. The dosage is based on the patient's weight and the severity of the poisoning. It is important to start treatment as soon as possible after ingestion of the toxic alcohol.

Contraindications

Fomepizole should not be used in patients with known hypersensitivity to the drug. It should also be used with caution in patients with liver disease, as the drug is metabolized in the liver.

See Also

• Ethylene glycol poisoning
• Methanol poisoning
• Alcohol dehydrogenase
• Antidote

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