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[Convulsive status secondary to star anise poisoning in a neonate]

M Gil Campos1, J L Pérez Navero, I Ibarra De La Rosa

  • 1Servicio de Críticos y Urgencias Pediátricas, Departamento de Pediatría. Hospital Universitario Reina Sofía, Facultad de Medicina, Córdoba, España.

Anales Espanoles De Pediatria
|October 24, 2002
PubMed

Insights

Star anise infusions, used for infant colic, can cause serious neurological and gastrointestinal issues in babies due to potent neurotoxins. Regulation of these herbal products is crucial to prevent infant poisoning.

Area of Science:

  • Toxicology
  • Pediatrics
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Star anise infusions are culturally used for infant colic treatment.
  • Concerns exist regarding the potential toxicity of star anise.

Observation:

  • Several infant cases with neurological and gastrointestinal symptoms linked to star anise ingestion were reported in Spain.
  • A 1-month-old infant experienced convulsive status after consuming star anise for colic.

Findings:

  • The infant's seizures were controlled with diazepam, but symptoms resolved without anticonvulsant therapy.
  • Clinical symptoms were attributed to star anise ingestion, containing neurotoxins like veranisatins.
  • No underlying abnormalities were found in the infant.

Implications:

  • Star anise contains potent neurotoxins, posing risks to infants.
  • There is a need for regulation of natural products with pharmacological effects sold in pharmacies.
  • Spanish Ministry of Health regulations in 2001 led to the withdrawal of anise-containing products.

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