Oxygen Drug Profile

Drug Classification

Gas

Mechanism of Action

Enters body via respiratory system, transported to cells by hemoglobin, required for efficient breakdown of glucose into usable energy

Pharmacokinetics

Onset of action: immediate
Peak Effects: <1 minute
Duration of Effect: <2 minutes
Half-Life: N/A

Indications/Field Use

Hypoxia, difficulty breathing, SpO2 <94%

Contraindications

ROSC post cardiac arrest with SpO2 >94%, chest pain, acute MI, suspected cellular injury and death with SpO2 >94%

Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Free radical formation in the presence of injured tissues, causing secondary cell death

Adult Dose/Route

2-6L NC, 12-15L NRB, 15L BVM, CPAP Varies by O2 demand to meet cmH2O requirement

Pedi Dose/Route

2-6L NC, 10-15L NRB, 15LPM BVM

Precautions

Avoid hyperoxia, high concentrations to neonates can cause eye damage, keep away from open flame, do not withhold from patients in respiratory distress

Drug-Drug Interactions

None in EMS