Cardiac toxicity caused by Achyranthes aspera

Area of Science:

• Herbal medicine
• Cardiovascular toxicology
• Pharmacovigilance

Background:

• Achyranthes aspera is a traditional medicinal herb used in various cultures.
• Understanding the safety profile of medicinal herbs is crucial for public health.
• Dosage and preparation methods can significantly influence the toxicity of herbal remedies.

Observation:

• A 57-year-old male presented with unconsciousness after ingesting over 1000 ml of an Achyranthes aspera decoction.
• The patient exhibited significant hypotension and bradycardia upon examination.
• No persistent cardiac abnormalities were detected during follow-up examinations.

Findings:

• The case suggests a direct correlation between the dose of Achyranthes aspera consumed and the severity of cardiovascular adverse effects.
• Transient cardiovascular toxicity, characterized by hypotension and bradycardia, is a potential risk associated with high-dose Achyranthes aspera ingestion.
• The patient's recovery within 4 days with dopamine and supportive care indicates the transient nature of the toxicity.

Implications:

• This case highlights the importance of accurate dosing and preparation of herbal remedies like Achyranthes aspera.
• Healthcare providers should be aware of the potential cardiovascular toxicity of Achyranthes aspera, especially in large quantities.
• Further research into the specific toxic compounds and mechanisms of Achyranthes aspera is warranted to establish safe usage guidelines.