Anticholinergic Toxicity Related to the Use of Datura Innoxia

• Published in: Journal of emergency medicine case reports 2017-04, Vol.8 (2), p.24-26
• Main Authors: Basturk, Mustafa, Icer, Mustafa, Guloglu, Cahfer, Ertekin, Selcuk, Dogan, Serkan
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• ISSN: 2149-9934; 2149-9934
• DOI: 10.5152/jemcr.2016.1653

Introduction: The incorrect use of the flowers, leaves, and seeds of some plants by members of the general public can give rise to serious toxicities. Datura innoxia (DI), also known as pipe grass or weed wizard, is frequently used for the treatment of asthma and cough and to alleviate cramps. However, DI is also a hallucinogenic, with tremendous potential for abuse and can cause anticholinergic toxicity, and serious and fatal complications, such as coma, respiratory failure, and death, have been reported. Case Report: We present the cases of two women (21 years old and 41 years old) who were admitted to the emergency department with findings of anticholinergic toxicity, including mydriasis, agitation, and delirium, after taking DI. The patients’ pupils were widely dilated. Gastric decontamination and administration of activated charcoal, IV fluids, and midazolam/diazepam were performed. The patients’ general conditions were recovered except for mydriasis. However, after 1 week, the diameter of the patients’ pupils returned to normal. Conclusion: The unconscious misuse of some plants can cause fatal anticholinergic toxicity. Such toxicity though has rarely been reported with DI. When plants known to cause toxicity are usually endemic, clinicians should be alert to potential anticholinergic toxicity in patients who present with anticholinergic symptoms in these endemic areas.