Drug Toxicity 101

Paracetamol

  • There are various clinical presentations of acetaminophen overdose, including asymptomatic, vague nausea/vomiting, acute liver failure, and even coma. A thorough history, in combination with laboratory data, is crucial for diagnosis.
  • Rule of 150s =>
    • Toxic dose is approximately 150mg/kg
    • Treatment with NAC should be implemented if >150 mg/kg acetaminophen level at 4 hours of presentation
    • The initial dose of IV NAC is 150 mg/kg in the first hour.
  • If you are working in a community hospital, consider transfer to a transplant center early if the patient has evidence of severe toxicity (King’s College criteria) or if there is worsening clinical status despite treatment.

Aspirin

  • Start treatment for aspirin overdose at 40 mg/dL or signs of systemic illness with charcoal (if patient tolerates) and sodium bicarbonate
  • If salicylate levels > 90 mg/dL, AMS, significant organ dysfunction, pH < 7.2, or hemodynamic instability => emergent hemodialysis
  • If possible, avoid intubation! But if intubation is necessary, attempt to match the patient’s minute ventilation!

TCA Toxicity

  • TCA toxicity can present with seizures, tachycardia, hypotension, anticholinergic toxicity, and coma.
  • The most common dysrhythmia is sinus tachycardia but the classic EKG findings include cardiac conduction delays, terminal R wave in aVR, and a widened QRS.
  • Treat initially with IVF resuscitation and sodium bicarbonate when QRS > 100ms or for hemodynamic instability.
  • Last resort therapies for refractory arrhythmias with significant toxicity include lidocaine, magnesium, and intravenous lipid emulsion.

Iron Toxicity

  • Charcoal will NOT be beneficial in iron overdose.
  • Criteria for treatment with deferoxamine are hypotension/shock, CNS symptoms, AG metabolic acidosis, serum iron levels > 500 ug/dl or persistent GI symptoms
  • Deferoxamine has the potential for significant hypotension and pulmonary toxicity. Discuss treatment dosing and duration with your toxicologist.

 

Emergency Medicine Kenya Foundation

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