Antidote Indication Mode of Action

Restores depleted
Acetaminophen/
glutathione stores and
acetylcysteine (Mucomyst) Tylenol/
protects against renal and
Paracetamol
hepatic failure.

Non-specific Absorption of drug in the

poisons except gastric and intestinal
Activated charcoal cyanide, iron, tracts. Interrupts the
lithium, caustics entero-hepatic cycle with
and alcohol. multiple dose.

albuterol inhaler, insulin & glu

Potassium
cose, NaHCO3, kayexalate

Neuromuscular
anticholinesterase agents blockade
(paralytics)

atropine sulfate or Anticholinesteras Competitive inhibition of

pralidoxime e muscarinic receptors.

Not known; partial

protection against acute
hepatic failure; may
Amanita displace amatoxin from
Benzylpenicillin phalloides (Death protein-binding sites
cap mushroom) allowing increased renal
excretion; may also inhibit
penetration of amatoxin to
hepatocytes.

Rapidly complexes with

Calcium salts Fluoride ingestion
fluoride ion.

Deferoxamine acts by
binding free iron in the
deferoxamine Iron bloodstream and
enhancing its elimination
in the urine.
 Common Drugs and Their Antidotes
An antidote is a substance that can counteract a form of poisoning. The
term antidote is a Greek word meaning “given against”. This post will help
you familiarize yourself with the common antidotes that are used in the
hospital setting. The following are antidotes that should be familiarized by
the nurse to respond to this emergency situation quickly.