It can be used as an antidote for strychnine poisoning. Mephenesin however presents with the major drawbacks of having a short duration of action and a much greater effect on the spinal cord than the brain, resulting in pronounced respiratory depression at clinical doses and therefore a very low therapeutic index. It is especially dangerous and potentially fatal in combination with alcohol and other depressants.
Mephenesin can be used to treat strychnine poisoning, but it has several drawbacks: its short duration of action and a stronger effect on the spinal cord than the brain, resulting in significant respiratory depression at therapeutic doses. It is especially dangerous when combined with alcohol or other depressants.