Manifestations of acute overdosage of TORECAN (thiethylperazine) can be expected to reflect the CNS effects of the drug and include extrapyramidal symptoms (E.P.S), confusion and convulsions with reduced or absent reflexes, respiratory depression and hypotension. If the patient is conscious, vomiting should be induced mechanically or with emetics. Gastric lavage should be employed utilizing concurrently a cuffed endotracheal t.b. if the patient is unconscious to prevent aspiration and pulmonary complications. Maintenance of adequate pulmonary ventilation is essential. The use of pressor agents intravenously may be necessary to combat hypotension. The administration of epinephrine should be avoided since phenothiazines may induce a reversed epinephrine effect. The most suitable vasoconstrictive agents are norepinephrine and phenylephrine. Fluids should be administered intravenously to encourage diuresis. The value of dialysis has not been determined. If excitation occurs, barbiturates should not be used. It should be borne in mind that multiple agents may have been ingested.

Severe central nervous system (CNS) depression and comatose states. Use of TORECAN (thiethylperazine) is contraindicated in patients who have demonstrated a hypersensitivity reaction (e.g., blood dyscrasias, jaundice) to phenothiazines.

Because severe hypotension has been reported after the intravenous administration of phenothiazines, this route of administration is contraindicated.

Usage in Pregnancy

TORECAN (thiethylperazine) is contraindicated in pregnancy.

Last reviewed on RxList: 12/8/2004
This monograph has been modified to include the generic and brand name in many instances.