Drug Interaction Report

Pralidoxime and other drugs within the family of compounds called oximes, such as obidoxime, may potentiate the pharmacologic effects of atropine. Signs of atropinization such as flushing, mydriasis, tachycardia, and dry mouth and nose may occur earlier than expected during coadministration with pralidoxime relative to administration of atropine alone, particularly if the total dose of atropine has been large and the administration of pralidoxime was delayed. Clinicians should be aware of the potential interaction and monitor patients as appropriate. Pralidoxime may be used in conjunction with atropine in the treatment of organophosphate insecticide poisoning and nerve agent poisoning in terrorism or chemical warfare.

GENERALLY AVOID: Use of anticholinergic agents with alcohol may result in sufficient impairment of attention so as to render driving and operating machinery more hazardous. In addition, the potential for abuse may be increased with the combination. The mechanism of interaction is not established but may involve additive depressant effects on the central nervous system. No effect of oral propantheline or atropine on blood alcohol levels was observed in healthy volunteers when administered before ingestion of a standard ethanol load. However, one study found impairment of attention in subjects given atropine 0.5 mg or glycopyrrolate 1 mg in combination with alcohol.

MANAGEMENT: Alcohol should generally be avoided during therapy with anticholinergic agents. Patients should be counseled to avoid activities requiring mental alertness until they know how these agents affect them.