Dear Editor:Droperidol is a short-acting butyrophenone derivative that has minimal side effects when compared to haloperidol. It is effective as an anti-emetic in doses from 0.625 mg and up through its antidopaminergic properties. It has minimal effects on the respiratory system and has sedative properties that last from 2 to 6 hours. We use droperidol as an adjunct to other opioid drugs, which can induce nausea and vomiting in cancer patients. Droperidol also offers an additional benefit of minimizing psychotic episodes. It has a beneficial effect on ileus that may develop and has minimal anticholinergic properties. It can be used only parenterally, and the action is rapid with intravenous administration. We have been using droperidol for the last 15 years in our intensive care unit for terminally ill patients who suffer from nausea and vomiting.
展开▼
