Drug Action
Lofexidine is an alpha2-adrenergic agonist.
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Drug reference
Lofexidine is an alpha2-adrenergic agonist.
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Management of symptoms of opioid withdrawal ▶BY MOUTH ▶Adult: Initially 800 micrograms daily in divided doses, increased in steps of 400–800 micrograms daily (max. per dose 800 micrograms) as required recommended duration of treatment 7–10 days if no opioid use (but longer may be required); maximum 2.4 mg per day
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Bradycardia. cerebrovascular disease. depression. hypotension (monitor pulse rate and blood pressure). metabolic disturbances. recent myocardial infarction. risk factors for QT interval prolongation. severe coronary insufficiency
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Lofexidine has been used in children over 12 years in the management of symptoms of opioid withdrawal. Available from specialist importing companies.
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→Appendix 1: lofexidine
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▶Common or very common Bradycardia. dizziness. drowsiness. hypotension. mucosal dryness ▶Frequency not known QT interval prolongation
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Use only if benefit outweighs risk—no information available.
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Use only if benefit outweighs risk—no information available.
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Caution in chronic impairment.
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Monitoring of blood pressure and pulse rate is recommended on initiation, for at least 72 hours or until a stable dose is achieved, and on discontinuation.
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No licensed medicines listed. Chapter 5 Infection CONTENTS Amoebic infection page 527 Bacterial infection Anthrax 2.1 Leprosy 2.2 Lyme disease 2.3 Methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus 2.4 Tuberculosis 2.5 Urinary tract infections 2.6 Fungal infection Pneumocystis pneumonia 3.1 Helminth infection Protozoal infection Leishmaniasis 5.1 Amoebic infection Other drugs used for Amoebic infection Metronidazole, p. 572. Tinidazole, p. 574 ANTIPROTOZOALS
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Treatment should be withdrawn gradually over 2–4 days (or longer) to reduce the risk of rebound hypertension and associated symptoms.
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The patient should take part of the dose at bedtime to offset insomnia associated with opioid withdrawal.
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Initially 800 micrograms daily in divided doses,
First-line fragment. Read the complete Indications and Dose section above.
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