Toxicity following accidental ingestion of Aconitum containing Chinese remedy.
Various species of Aconitum are commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine. These plants are known to contain highly potent cardiotoxins. A 22 year old Chinese male accidentally ingested a herbal liniment prepared from Aconitum with near fatal results. His ventricular tachyarrhythmias responded to standard treatment including the use of i.v. magnesium.
Medical Toxicology Unit, Guy's & St Thomas' Hospital Trust, London.
S T
ST
Kolev
P
P
Leman
G C
GC
Kite
P C
PC
Stevenson
D
D
Shaw
V S
VS
Murray
D000157:Aconitine / Q000009:adverse effects*; D000328:Adult; D002851:Chromatography, High Pressure Liquid; D004365:Drugs, Chinese Herbal / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000378:metabolism; D006801:Humans; D007275:Injections, Intravenous; D008274:Magnesium / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D008297:Male; D013610:Tachycardia / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000188:drug therapy
D004365:Drugs, Chinese Herbal; D008274:Magnesium; D000157:Aconitine