Doxapram Side Effects

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Nov 11, 2024.

Applies to doxapram: parenteral injection.

Side effects include:

Cough, dyspnea, tachypnea, headache, dizziness, apprehension, hypertension, flushing, sweating, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, urinary retention, muscle spasticity.

For healthcare professionals

Applies to doxapram: intravenous solution.

General adverse events

In preterm neonates and infants, this drug has caused significant QT interval prolongation (associated with atrioventricular block in some cases), bloody stools, abdominal distension, necrotizing enterocolitis, multiple gastric perforations/increased gastric residuals, neurodevelopmental delay, vomiting, premature teeth eruption, hypertension, irritability, jitteriness, hyperglycemia, glucosuria, erratic limb movements, excessive crying, and disturbed sleep.

Seizures have occurred in premature neonates with risk factors such as a previous seizure, perinatal asphyxia, or intracerebral hemorrhage. In many cases, this drug was given following administration of xanthine derivatives (e.g., caffeine, aminophylline, or theophylline).^[Ref]

Cardiovascular

• Frequency not reported: Phlebitis, heart rate variations, lowered T-waves, arrhythmia, ventricular tachycardia, sinus tachycardia, ventricular fibrillation, bradycardia, extrasystole, chest pain, chest tightness, increased blood pressure, flushing^[Ref]

Dermatologic

• Frequency not reported: Pruritus, sweating^[Ref]

Gastrointestinal

• Frequency not reported: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, defecation desire, salivation^[Ref]

Genitourinary

• Frequency not reported: Urinary retention, urinary bladder stimulation with spontaneous voiding, elevated BUN, albuminuria^[Ref]

Hematologic

• Frequency not reported: Hemolysis, decreased hemoglobin, decreased hematocrit, decreased red blood cell count, decreased white blood cell count (in presence of pre-existing leukopenia)^[Ref]

Musculoskeletal

• Frequency not reported: Muscle spasticity, muscle fasciculation, increased deep tendon reflexes, clonus, bilateral Babinski^[Ref]

Nervous system

• Frequency not reported: Paresthesia, headache, dizziness, hyperactivity, involuntary movement, convulsion, decreased cerebral blood flow velocity^[Ref]

Ocular

• Frequency not reported: Pupillary dilation^[Ref]

Other

• Frequency not reported: Pyrexia, perineal warmth^[Ref]

Psychiatric

• Frequency not reported: Apprehension, disorientation, hallucination, confusion^[Ref]

Respiratory

• Frequency not reported: Dyspnea, cough, hyperventilation, tachypnea, laryngospasm, bronchospasm, hiccough, rebound hyperventilation^[Ref]

Further information

Doxapram side effects can vary depending on the individual. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Note: Medication side effects may be underreported. If you are experiencing side effects that are not listed, submit a report to the FDA by following this guide.

Medical Disclaimer