Doxapram

**Semantic type:** Pharmacologic Substance

**Definition:** A respiratory stimulant with analeptic activity. Doxapram, independent of oxygen levels, directly stimulates the peripheral carotid chemoreceptors, possibly by inhibiting the potassium channels of type I cells within the carotid body, thereby stimulating catecholamines release. This results in the prevention or reversal of both narcotic- and CNS depressant-induced respiratory depression.

**Synonyms:** - DOXAPRAM