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Acute isoniazid intoxication: seizures, acidosis and coma
W Temmerman1, A Dhondt, K Vandewoude
1Department of Internal Medicine: Respiratory Division, Universital Hospital, Gent, Belgium.
Acta Clinica Belgica
|November 2, 1999
Summary
Isoniazid (INH) overdose is a medical emergency presenting with seizures, metabolic acidosis, and coma. Prompt treatment with pyridoxine (vitamin B6) is crucial for managing this potentially fatal condition.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Pharmacology
- Internal Medicine
Background:
- Isoniazid (INH) is a primary drug for tuberculosis treatment.
- Acute INH overdose presents a significant, potentially fatal risk.
Observation:
- The clinical presentation includes seizures, metabolic acidosis with high anion gap, and coma.
- Diagnosis is critical in patients with unexplained metabolic acidosis and convulsions.
Findings:
- Pyridoxine (vitamin B6) is the cornerstone of therapy, with dosage matching INH ingestion.
- Dialysis is indicated for conservative therapy failure or renal insufficiency.
Implications:
- Early recognition and pyridoxine administration are vital for patient survival.
- Chronic INH toxicity also necessitates pyridoxine therapy.
- This case report and literature review highlight critical management strategies for INH overdose.