Indications of Mactier et al for Extracorporeal Therapy for Barbiturate Poisoning

Patient selection: barbiturate poisoning

Method of extracorporeal therapy:

(1) intermittent hemodialysis

(2) continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT)

Extracorporeal therapy is only recommended if the poisoning is caused by a long-acting barbiturate.

Indications for extracorporeal therapy:

(1) prolonged coma

(2) respiratory depression requiring mechanical ventilation

(3) shock

(4) persistent toxicity and/or elevated serum barbiturate concentration despite optimal care with activated charcoal

Additional comments:

(1) Multiple-dose activated charcoal should be continued during extracorporeal therapy.

Goal of therapy:

(1) clinical improvement