Nithiodote
Generic name:sodium nitrite and sodium thiosulfate [ SOO-dee-um-NYE-trite-and-SOO-de-um-THYE-oh-SUL-fate ]
Drug class:Antidotes
What is Nithiodote?
Nithiodote is a combination medicine that is used in an emergency to treat cyanide poisoning. This type of poisoning can occur if you are exposed to smoke from a house or industrial fire, if you swallow or breathe in cyanide, or if you get cyanide on your skin.
Nithiodote helps cells in the body convert cyanide to a form that can be removed through urination.
Nithiodote may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
In an emergency, you may not be able to tell caregivers about your health conditions. Make sure any doctor caring for you afterward knows you received Nithiodote.
Before taking this medicine
If possible before you receive this medicine, tell your caregivers if you have ever had:
kidney disease;
anemia (low red blood cells);
a genetic enzyme deficiency called glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency;
heart disease.
In an emergency, you may not be able to tell caregivers if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Make sure any doctor caring for your pregnancy or your baby knows you received this medicine.
You should not breastfeed while using Nithiodote.
How is Nithiodote given?
Nithiodote is given as an infusion into a vein. A healthcare provider will give you this injection.
Nithiodote is usually given as two separate injections.
Your breathing, blood pressure, oxygen levels, kidney function, and other vital signs will be watched closely.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Because you will receive Nithiodote in an emergency setting, you are not likely to miss a dose.
What happens if I overdose?
Since Nithiodote is given in a medical setting, you will be watched closely to make sure you do not receive too much of Nithiodote. Your caregivers will quickly treat you if you have overdose symptoms.
