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Ollier M, Giles S, Gosselin S. The Occasional intralipid emulsion therapy. CANADIAN JOURNAL OF RURAL MEDICINE 2023; 28:195-200. [PMID: 37861604 DOI: 10.4103/cjrm.cjrm_62_22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Mary Ollier
- Departement of Family Medicine Temerty School of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Sarah Giles
- Northern Ontario School of Medicine University, Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada
| | - Sophie Gosselin
- Centre Intégré De Santé Et Services Sociaux De La Montérégie-Centre; Centre Antipoison Du Québec; Department of Family Medicine and Emergency Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
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Seetharam R, Iyer RB, Nooraine J, Ramachandran J. Clarithromycin-induced Seizures and Status Epilepticus. Indian J Crit Care Med 2021; 25:945-947. [PMID: 34733040 PMCID: PMC8559746 DOI: 10.5005/jp-journals-10071-23900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Clarithromycin is a commonly used antibiotic. Neuropsychiatric adverse effects are recognized, but the occurrence of seizures and status epilepticus (SE) has been rarely reported. We report the case of an elderly patient who developed generalized tonic-clonic seizures (GTCS) followed by nonconvulsive status epilepticus (NCSE), 2 days after starting clarithromycin. Other causes of seizures were excluded by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain, CSF analysis, and routine laboratory studies, thus establishing the causal role of clarithromycin. Clarithromycin was stopped and parenteral antiepileptic drugs started, which controlled the status. In the elderly, symptoms like delirium, drowsiness, confusion, or seizures can occur due to an underlying systemic disease, brain pathology, or adverse effects of medications, all of which must be correctly differentiated. This case illustrates the occurrence of seizures and SE due to clarithromycin. Awareness about this possibility will help physicians recognize and treat such situations promptly. How to cite this article: Seetharam R, Iyer RB, Nooraine J, Ramachandran J. Clarithromycin-induced Seizures and Status Epilepticus. Indian J Crit Care Med 2021;25(8):945–947.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rajesh B Iyer
- Department of Neurology, Vikram Hospital, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
| | - Javeria Nooraine
- Department of Neurology, Vikram Hospital, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
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Abstract
This article examines, using an organ-systems based approach, rapid diagnosis, resuscitation, and critical care management of the crashing poisoned patient in the emergency department. The topics discussed in this article include seizures and status epilepticus, respiratory failure, cardiovascular collapse and mechanical circulatory support, antidotes and drug-specific therapies, acute liver failure, and extracorporeal toxin removal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaron Skolnik
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Mayo Clinic Hospital, 5777 East Mayo Boulevard, Phoenix, AZ 85054, USA; Department of Emergency Medicine, Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine, Mayo Clinic Hospital, 5777 East Mayo Boulevard, Phoenix, AZ 85054, USA.
| | - Jessica Monas
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine, Mayo Clinic Hospital, 5777 East Mayo Boulevard, Phoenix, AZ 85054, USA
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Ostroumova TM, Ostroumova OD, Akimova ES, Kochetkov AI. [Drug-induced seizures: prevalence, risk factors, treatment and prevention]. Zh Nevrol Psikhiatr Im S S Korsakova 2020; 119:86-97. [PMID: 31851178 DOI: 10.17116/jnevro201911911186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
There is a growing interest to the problem of drug-induced epileptic seizures (ES) due to their relatively high prevalence, poor prognosis, a large number of different drugs associated with the development of drug-induced ES, and low awareness among general practitioners. Drug-induced ES are most often associated with the use of antidepressants, antipsychotics, antiepileptic drugs (overdose or as a result of discontinuation), antibiotics, immunosuppressants and immunomodulators, antitumor agents, analgesics, central nervous system stimulators, anesthetics etc. The prevalence of drug-induced ES varies with different drugs. It is estimated that about 6.1% of the first occurring ES are drug-induced. Risk factors for drug-induced ES include a history of epilepsy or ES, cancer, blood-brain barrier dysfunction, several concomitant neurological diseases, mental disorders, childhood, old and very old age, fever, impaired liver metabolism in patients with liver diseases, impaired drug excretion in patients with kidney diseases, polypharmacy, pharmacokinetic properties of the drugs themselves, allowing them to penetrate the blood-brain barrier in the central nervous system (lipophilicity, transport and communication with blood plasma proteins), drug concentration in blood serum, method and frequency of drug administration, single and daily doses of drugs. No clinical guidelines for the management of patients with drug-induced ES are available. It is recommended to identify patients at risk: elderly patients, patients with impaired liver and kidney function and patients receiving drugs that can cause ES and/or lower the seizure threshold. Benzodiazepines are the first-line treatment in drug-induced status epilepticus, barbiturates and propofol are the second-line treatment. The general principles for the prevention of drug-induced ES include careful selection of the optimal dose of drugs that can cause ES, especially in patients with impaired liver and/or kidney function, monitoring of several parameters in blood serum (for example, liver enzymes, electrolytes, glucose etc.), monitoring of the blood plasma concentration of certain drugs, avoiding the simultaneous administration of several drugs that stimulate the central nervous system, and a rapid discontinuation of such drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- T M Ostroumova
- Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Moscow,Russia
| | - O D Ostroumova
- Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Moscow,Russia; Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University' Russian Clinical and Research Center of Gerontology, Moscow, Russia
| | - E S Akimova
- Yevdokimov Moscow State University of Medicine and Dentistry, Moscow, Russia
| | - A I Kochetkov
- Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University' Russian Clinical and Research Center of Gerontology, Moscow, Russia
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Bornstein K, Montrief T, Anwar Parris M. Successful Management of Adolescent Bupropion Overdose with Intravenous Lipid Emulsion Therapy. J Pediatr Intensive Care 2019; 8:242-246. [PMID: 31673461 DOI: 10.1055/s-0039-1693483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2019] [Accepted: 06/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Bupropion overdose in the pediatric setting poses significant potential for toxicity. We present the case of a 15-year-old female patient presenting with intentional bupropion overdose resulting in generalized tonic-clonic seizures, severe acidosis, vomiting, and tachycardia after ingestion of between 1,650 to 9,000 mg (24-133 mg/kg) of bupropion. The patient was admitted to pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) where toxicity was resolved promptly following administration of intravenous lipid emulsion (ILE) infusion. ILE is a first-line treatment for other forms of toxicity including unintended local anesthetic administration. ILE use is not a first-line treatment in this setting, but this case presents a positive subsequent patient outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kasha Bornstein
- University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, United States
| | - Tim Montrief
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Miami, Jackson Memorial Hospital/Miller School of Medicine, Miami, United States
| | - Mehruba Anwar Parris
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Miami, Jackson Memorial Hospital/Miller School of Medicine, Miami, United States
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Wolfe CE, Wood DM, Dines A, Whatley BP, Yates C, Heyerdahl F, Hovda KE, Giraudon I, Dargan PI, Anseeuw K, Badaras R, Bonnici J, Brvar M, Caganova B, Ceschi A, Eyer F, Galicia M, Geith S, Gillebeert J, Grenc D, Gorozia K, Jaffal K, Jürgens G, Kabata PM, Kennedy I, Konstari J, Kutubidze S, Laubner G, Liakoni E, Liechti ME, Lyphout C, Mégarbane B, Miró Ò, Moughty A, Müller L, O'Connor N, Paasma R, Perez JO, Perminas M, Persett PS, Põld K, Puiguriguer J, Radenkova-Saeva J, Rulisek J, Schmid Y, Scholz I, Sopirala R, Surkus J, Toth I, Vallersnes OM, Vigorita F, Waldman W, Waring WS, Zacharov S. Seizures as a complication of recreational drug use: Analysis of the Euro-DEN Plus data-set. Neurotoxicology 2019; 73:183-187. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuro.2019.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2019] [Revised: 04/04/2019] [Accepted: 04/04/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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Dagan Y, Yager J. Severe bupropion XR abuse in a patient with long-standing bulimia nervosa and complex PTSD. Int J Eat Disord 2018; 51:1207-1209. [PMID: 30230570 DOI: 10.1002/eat.22948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2018] [Revised: 07/17/2018] [Accepted: 08/04/2018] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Although abuse of bupropion to achieve euphoria or a stimulant-like effect has been described in the literature, to our knowledge abuse of bupropion XR to control binge eating and reduce appetite by a patient with eating disorder has not been previously reported. METHOD We report the case of a 22-year-old woman with bulimia nervosa and complex PTSD who abused bupropion XR to doses that at peak reached 3,000-4,500 mg/day. She suffered from adverse effects including headaches, tachycardia, anxiety, insomnia, and, finally, grand mal seizures. RESULTS Unable to control the abuse on her own, she sought inpatient treatment, following which she remained off bupropion XR for a year. However, she subsequently relapsed. DISCUSSION The stimulant, euphoriant, and anorexic effects of bupropion XR contribute to its potential for abuse, particularly among patients with eating disorders. Clinicians are reminded to screen for anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa histories prior to prescribing this medication, and to consider its abuse among eating disorder patients presenting with seizures. For patients abusing this medication, motivational interviewing in the context of a strong, ongoing therapeutic relationship might help to achieve sustained periods of abstinence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yael Dagan
- The Jerusalem Mental Health Center, Kfar Shaul Psychiatric Hospital affiliated with The Hebrew University-Hadassah School of Medicine, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Joel Yager
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of Colorado Denver, Aurora, Colorado
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Lee T, Warrick BJ, Sarangarm P, Alunday RL, Bussmann S, Smolinske SC, Seifert SA. Levetiracetam in toxic seizures. Clin Toxicol (Phila) 2017; 56:175-181. [DOI: 10.1080/15563650.2017.1355056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ted Lee
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of New Mexico Hospital, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - Brandon J. Warrick
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of New Mexico Hospital, Albuquerque, NM, USA
- New Mexico Poison and Drug Information Center, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - Preeyaporn Sarangarm
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of New Mexico Hospital, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - Robert L. Alunday
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of New Mexico Hospital, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - Silas Bussmann
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of New Mexico Hospital, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - Susan C. Smolinske
- New Mexico Poison and Drug Information Center, Albuquerque, NM, USA
- College of Pharmacy, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, USA
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Eddleston M, Chowdhury FR. Pharmacological treatment of organophosphorus insecticide poisoning: the old and the (possible) new. Br J Clin Pharmacol 2015; 81:462-70. [PMID: 26366467 DOI: 10.1111/bcp.12784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2015] [Revised: 09/09/2015] [Accepted: 09/11/2015] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite being a major clinical and public health problem across the developing world, responsible for at least 5 million deaths over the last three decades, the clinical care of patients with organophosphorus (OP) insecticide poisoning has little improved over the last six decades. We are still using the same two antidotes - atropine and oximes - that first came into clinical use in the late 1950s. Clinical research in South Asia has shown how improved regimens of atropine can prevent deaths. However, we are still unsure about which patients are most likely to benefit from the use of oximes. Supplemental antidotes, such as magnesium, clonidine and sodium bicarbonate, have all been proposed and studied in small trials without production of definitive answers. Novel antidotes such as nicotinic receptor antagonists, beta-adrenergic agonists and lipid emulsions are being studied in large animal models and in pilot clinical trials. Hopefully, one or more of these affordable and already licensed antidotes will find their place in routine clinical care. However, the large number of chemically diverse OP insecticides, the varied poisoning they produce and their varied response to treatment might ultimately make it difficult to determine definitively whether these antidotes are truly effective. In addition, the toxicity of the varied solvents and surfactants formulated with the OP active ingredients complicates both treatment and studies. It is possible that the only effective way to reduce deaths from OP insecticide poisoning will be a steady reduction in their agricultural use worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Eddleston
- Pharmacology, Toxicology, & Therapeutics, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK.,National Poisons Information Service - Edinburgh, Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
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Chen HY, Albertson TE, Olson KR. Treatment of drug-induced seizures. Br J Clin Pharmacol 2015; 81:412-9. [PMID: 26174744 DOI: 10.1111/bcp.12720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2015] [Revised: 07/03/2015] [Accepted: 07/07/2015] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Seizures are a common complication of drug intoxication, and up to 9% of status epilepticus cases are caused by a drug or poison. While the specific drugs associated with drug-induced seizures may vary by geography and change over time, common reported causes include antidepressants, stimulants and antihistamines. Seizures occur generally as a result of inadequate inhibitory influences (e.g., gamma aminobutyric acid, GABA) or excessive excitatory stimulation (e.g. glutamate) although many other neurotransmitters play a role. Most drug-induced seizures are self-limited. However, status epilepticus occurs in up to 10% of cases. Prolonged or recurrent seizures can lead to serious complications and require vigorous supportive care and anticonvulsant drugs. Benzodiazepines are generally accepted as the first line anticonvulsant therapy for drug-induced seizures. If benzodiazepines fail to halt seizures promptly, second line drugs include barbiturates and propofol. If isoniazid poisoning is a possibility, pyridoxine is given. Continuous infusion of one or more anticonvulsants may be required in refractory status epilepticus. There is no role for phenytoin in the treatment of drug-induced seizures. The potential role of ketamine and levetiracetam is promising but not established.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hsien-Yi Chen
- California Poison Control System, Department of Clinical Pharmacy, University of California, San Francisco, USA.,Department of Emergency Medicine, Chang-Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan.,Division of Clinical Pharmacology & Toxicology, San Francisco General Hospital, San Francisco, USA
| | - Timothy E Albertson
- California Poison Control System, Department of Clinical Pharmacy, University of California, San Francisco, USA.,Department of Internal Medicine, University of California Davis School of Medicine and Veterans Administration Northern California Health Care System, California
| | - Kent R Olson
- California Poison Control System, Department of Clinical Pharmacy, University of California, San Francisco, USA.,Division of Clinical Pharmacology & Toxicology, San Francisco General Hospital, San Francisco, USA
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Abstract
Drug-induced status epilepticus (SE) is a relatively uncommon phenomenon, probably accounting for less than 5% of all SE cases, although limitations in case ascertainment and establishing causation substantially weaken epidemiological estimates. Some antiepileptic drugs, particularly those with sodium channel or GABA(γ-aminobutyric acid)-ergic properties, frequently exacerbate seizures and may lead to SE if used inadvertently in generalized epilepsies or less frequently in other epilepsies. Tiagabine seems to have a particular propensity for triggering nonconvulsive SE sometimes in patients with no prior history of seizures. In therapeutic practice, SE is most commonly seen in association with antibiotics (cephalosporins, quinolones, and some others) and immunotherapies/chemotherapies, the latter often in the context of a reversible encephalopathy syndrome. Status epilepticus following accidental or intentional overdoses, particularly of antidepressants or other psychotropic medications, has also featured prominently in the literature: whilst there are sometimes fatal consequences, this is more commonly because of cardiorespiratory or metabolic complications than as a result of seizure activity. A high index of suspicion is required in identifying those at risk and in recognizing potential clues from the presentation, but even with a careful analysis of patient and drug factors, establishing causation can be difficult. In addition to eliminating the potential trigger, management should be as for SE in any other circumstances, with the exception that phenobarbitone is recommended as a second-line treatment for suspected toxicity-related SE where the risk of cardiovascular complications is higher anyways and may be exacerbated by phenytoin. There are also specific recommendations/antidotes in some situations. The outcome of drug-induced status epilepticus is mostly good when promptly identified and treated, though less so in the context of overdoses. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled "Status Epilepticus".
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Vieira AA, Marinho BG, de Souza LG, Fernandes PD, Figueroa-Villar JD. Design, synthesis and in vivo evaluation of sodium 2-benzyl-chloromalonates as new central nervous system depressants. MEDCHEMCOMM 2015. [DOI: 10.1039/c5md00187k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
This work describes the design, synthesis and in vivo evaluation of new central nervous system depressing agents that show low levels of acute toxicity, high solubility in water, anxiolytic and hypnotic effects without sleep deprivation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreia Aguiar Vieira
- Medicinal Chemistry Group
- Department of Chemistry
- Military Institute of Engineering
- Rio de Janeiro-RJ
- Brazil
| | - Bruno Guimarães Marinho
- Laboratory of Pharmacology
- Department of Physiological Sciences
- Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro
- Seropédica
- Brazil
| | - Luana Gonçalves de Souza
- Medicinal Chemistry Group
- Department of Chemistry
- Military Institute of Engineering
- Rio de Janeiro-RJ
- Brazil
| | - Patricia Dias Fernandes
- Laboratory of Pharmacology of Pain and Inflammation
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences
- Federal University of Rio de Janeiro
- Rio de Janeiro-RJ
- Brazil
| | - José D. Figueroa-Villar
- Medicinal Chemistry Group
- Department of Chemistry
- Military Institute of Engineering
- Rio de Janeiro-RJ
- Brazil
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Slaughter RJ, Mason RW, Beasley DMG, Vale JA, Schep LJ. Isopropanol poisoning. Clin Toxicol (Phila) 2014; 52:470-8. [DOI: 10.3109/15563650.2014.914527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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Lung DD, Wu AH, Gerona RR. Cardiotoxicity in a Citalopram and Olanzapine Overdose. J Emerg Med 2013; 45:554-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jemermed.2013.04.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2012] [Revised: 03/29/2013] [Accepted: 04/30/2013] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Finkelstein Y, Hutson JR, Freedman SB, Wax P, Brent J. Drug-induced seizures in children and adolescents presenting for emergency care: Current and emerging trends. Clin Toxicol (Phila) 2013; 51:761-6. [DOI: 10.3109/15563650.2013.829233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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Barry JD, Wills BK. Neurotoxic emergencies. Psychiatr Clin North Am 2013; 36:219-44. [PMID: 23688689 DOI: 10.1016/j.psc.2013.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
This article is intended for clinicians treating neurotoxic emergencies. Presented are causative agents of neurotoxic emergencies, many of which are easily mistaken for acute psychiatric disorders. Understanding the wide variety of agents responsible for neurotoxic emergencies and the neurotransmitter interactions involved will help the psychiatrist identify and treat this challenging population.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Dave Barry
- Emergency Medicine Residency Program, Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, Portsmouth, VA, USA.
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Yam MFC, Kiew CF, Chong CP. Hyperglycemia and late onset seizures associated with quetiapine overdose. Tzu Chi Med J 2013. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tcmj.2012.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022] Open
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Schep LJ, Knudsen K, Slaughter RJ, Vale JA, Mégarbane B. The clinical toxicology of γ-hydroxybutyrate, γ-butyrolactone and 1,4-butanediol. Clin Toxicol (Phila) 2012; 50:458-70. [PMID: 22746383 DOI: 10.3109/15563650.2012.702218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) and its precursors, gamma-butyrolactone (GBL) and 1,4-butanediol (1,4-BD), are drugs of abuse which act primarily as central nervous system (CNS) depressants. In recent years, the rising recreational use of these drugs has led to an increasing burden upon health care providers. Understanding their toxicity is therefore essential for the successful management of intoxicated patients. We review the epidemiology, mechanisms of toxicity, toxicokinetics, clinical features, diagnosis, and management of poisoning due to GHB and its analogs and discuss the features and management of GHB withdrawal. METHODS OVID MEDLINE and ISI Web of Science databases were searched using the terms "GHB," "gamma-hydroxybutyrate," "gamma-hydroxybutyric acid," "4-hydroxybutanoic acid," "sodium oxybate," "gamma-butyrolactone," "GBL," "1,4-butanediol," and "1,4-BD" alone and in combination with the keywords "pharmacokinetics," "kinetics," "poisoning," "poison," "toxicity," "ingestion," "adverse effects," "overdose," and "intoxication." In addition, bibliographies of identified articles were screened for additional relevant studies including nonindexed reports. Non-peer-reviewed sources were also included: books, relevant newspaper reports, and applicable Internet resources. These searches produced 2059 nonduplicate citations of which 219 were considered relevant. EPIDEMIOLOGY There is limited information regarding statistical trends on world-wide use of GHB and its analogs. European data suggests that the use of GHB is generally low; however, there is some evidence of higher use among some sub-populations, settings, and geographical areas. In the United States of America, poison control center data have shown that enquiries regarding GHB have decreased between 2002 and 2010 suggesting a decline in use over this timeframe. MECHANISMS OF ACTION GHB is an endogenous neurotransmitter synthesized from glutamate with a high affinity for GHB-receptors, present on both on pre- and postsynaptic neurons, thereby inhibiting GABA release. In overdose, GHB acts both directly as a partial GABA(b) receptor agonist and indirectly through its metabolism to form GABA. TOXICOKINETICS GHB is rapidly absorbed by the oral route with peak blood concentrations typically occurring within 1 hour. It has a relatively small volume of distribution and is rapidly distributed across the blood-brain barrier. GHB is metabolized primarily in the liver and is eliminated rapidly with a reported 20-60 minute half-life. The majority of a dose is eliminated completely within 4-8 hours. The related chemicals, 1,4-butanediol and gamma butyrolactone, are metabolized endogenously to GHB. CLINICAL FEATURES OF POISONING: GHB produces CNS and respiratory depression of relatively short duration. Other commonly reported features include gastrointestinal upset, bradycardia, myoclonus, and hypothermia. Fatalities have been reported. MANAGEMENT OF POISONING: Supportive care is the mainstay of management with primary emphasis on respiratory and cardiovascular support. Airway protection, intubation, and/or assisted ventilation may be indicated for severe respiratory depression. Gastrointestinal decontamination is unlikely to be beneficial. Pharmacological intervention is rarely required for bradycardia; however, atropine administration may occasionally be warranted. WITHDRAWAL SYNDROME: Abstinence after chronic use may result in a withdrawal syndrome, which may persist for days in severe cases. Features include auditory and visual hallucinations, tremors, tachycardia, hypertension, sweating, anxiety, agitation, paranoia, insomnia, disorientation, confusion, and aggression/combativeness. Benzodiazepine administration appears to be the treatment of choice, with barbiturates, baclofen, or propofol as second line management options. CONCLUSIONS GHB poisoning can cause potentially life-threatening CNS and respiratory depression, requiring appropriate, symptom-directed supportive care to ensure complete recovery. Withdrawal from GHB may continue for up to 21 days and can be life-threatening, though treatment with benzodiazepines is usually effective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leo J Schep
- National Poisons Centre, Department of Preventive and Social Medicine, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand.
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Shadnia S, Brent J, Mousavi-Fatemi K, Hafezi P, Soltaninejad K. Recurrent seizures in tramadol intoxication: implications for therapy based on 100 patients. Basic Clin Pharmacol Toxicol 2012; 111:133-6. [PMID: 22364547 DOI: 10.1111/j.1742-7843.2012.00874.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2011] [Accepted: 02/13/2012] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Tramadol is an atypical opioid analgesic used in the treatment of mild to moderate pain. Despite being a GABA(A) agonist, seizures are a prominent complication with its therapeutic use, abuse or overdose. For patients who have had a tramadol-induced seizure, the likelihood of recurrent seizures and the need for emergent anticonvulsant prophylaxis is unknown. However, treatment of patients with anticonvulsants prophylactically may cause adverse effects and increased morbidity in tramadol poisoning. We studied the outcome and frequency of recurrent seizures in tramadol-intoxicated patients in an attempt to determine the need for prophylactic anticonvulsant therapy. This was a retrospective cohort study of tramadol-intoxicated patients who had at least one seizure. Patients' age, sex, cause(s) of intoxication, route of poisoning, dose or number of capsules or tablets taken, vital signs, other signs or symptoms, numbers of seizures, length of stay, co-ingestions and past medical history were ascertained. Exactly 100 patients met the inclusion criteria. Eighty-two per cent were men, and 50% were between 21 and 30 years old. By our standard clinical protocol, none were treated with seizure prophylaxis after their first seizure. Only 7% had recurrent seizures and all patients recovered without sequelae. Because of the low risk of multiple seizures in tramadol poisoning and the lack of morbidity in patients who do seize, it appears to be unnecessary to administer prophylactic anticonvulsant therapy in patients with tramadol poisoning, even if they have an initial seizure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shahin Shadnia
- Department of Clinical Toxicology, Loghman Hakim Hospital Poison Center, Faculty of Medicine, Toxicological Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Schep LJ, Slaughter RJ, Vale JA, Beasley DMG, Gee P. The clinical toxicology of the designer "party pills" benzylpiperazine and trifluoromethylphenylpiperazine. Clin Toxicol (Phila) 2011; 49:131-41. [PMID: 21495881 DOI: 10.3109/15563650.2011.572076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Benzylpiperazine (BZP) and trifluoromethylphenylpiperazine (TFMPP) are synthetic phenylpiperazine analogues. BZP was investigated as a potential antidepressant in the early 1970s but was found unsuitable for this purpose. More recently, BZP and TFMPP have been used as substitutes for amfetamine-derived designer drugs. They were legally available in a number of countries, particularly in New Zealand, and were marketed as party pills, but are now more heavily regulated. This article will review the mechanisms of toxicity, toxicokinetics, clinical features, diagnosis, and management of poisoning due to BZP and TFMPP. METHODS OVID MEDLINE and ISI Web of Science were searched systematically for studies on BZP and TFMPP and the bibliographies of identified articles were screened for additional relevant studies including nonindexed reports. Nonpeer-reviewed sources were also accessed. In all, 179 papers excluding duplicates were identified and 74 were considered relevant. MECHANISMS OF ACTION BZP and TFMPP have stimulant and amfetamine-like properties. They enhance the release of catecholamines, particularly of dopamine, from sympathetic nerve terminals, increasing intra-synaptic concentrations. The resulting elevated intra-synaptic monoamine concentrations cause increased activation of both central and peripheral α- and β-adrenergic postsynaptic receptors. BZP has primarily dopaminergic and noradrenergic action while TFMPP has a more direct serotonin agonist activity. TOXICOKINETICS There is limited information on the kinetics of these drugs. Following ingestion, peak plasma concentrations are reached after 60 to 90 min. Both drugs would be expected to cross the blood brain barrier and they are metabolized mainly by hydroxylation and N-dealkylation catalyzed by cytochrome P450 and catechol-o-methyl transferase enzymes. In humans, only small amounts of both BZP and TFMPP are excreted in the urine, suggesting a low bioavailability. The serum half-lives of BZP and TFMPP are relatively short with elimination being essentially complete in 44 h for BZP and 24 h for TFMPP. CLINICAL FEATURES These compounds can cause harmful effects when taken recreationally. Commonly reported features include palpitations, agitation, anxiety, confusion, dizziness, headache, tremor, mydriasis, insomnia, urine retention, and vomiting. Seizures are induced in some patients even at low doses. Severe multiorgan toxicity has been reported, though fatalities have not been recorded conclusively. MANAGEMENT Supportive care including the termination of seizures is paramount, with relief of symptoms usually being provided by benzodiazepines alone. CONCLUSIONS BZP and TFMP can cause sympathomimetic effects in the intoxicated patient. Appropriate, symptom-directed supportive care should ensure a good recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leo J Schep
- Department of Preventive and Social Medicine, National Poisons Centre, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand.
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