What is the recommended treatment for organophosphate poisoning?

The recommended treatment for organophosphate poisoning involves the administration of atropine, an anticholinergic agent that counteracts the effects of the poison by blocking the action of acetylcholine at muscarinic receptors. In cases of organophosphate toxicity, the symptomatology typically includes excessive salivation, lacrimation, urination, diarrhea, gastrointestinal distress, and increased bronchial secretions, which are driven by overstimulation of the parasympathetic nervous system.

Atropine is administered to alleviate these symptoms and restore a more stable physiological state. The standard initial dose for adults experiencing organophosphate poisoning is typically 2 mg of atropine, given intravenously. This dosage can be repeated every 5 to 15 minutes until the patient's symptoms are controlled, with the termed effectiveness being considered when the secretions are reduced and the heart rate increases to a more normal range.

The choice of 2mg every 5 minutes aligns with common protocols in emergency medicine. It allows for adequate titration of the dose based on the patient’s response, enabling the paramedic to closely monitor the patient while administering sufficient medication to counteract the toxic effects of the organophosphate.