Suspected moonflower intoxication--Ohio, 2002
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Rapid High-throughput Species Identification of Botanical Material Using Direct Analysis in Real Time High Resolution Mass Spectrometry
Published on: October 2, 2016
Abstract:
During October 11-November 20, 2002, the Cincinnati Drug and Poison Information Center (DPIC) received notification of and offered treatment advice for 14 adolescents in the Akron/Cleveland, Ohio, area who became ill after intentional exposure to toxic seeds that DPIC identified as Datura inoxia. All became ill shortly after eating the seeds or drinking tea brewed using the seeds. All patients recovered fully after treatment. This report summarizes these cases, discusses the characteristics of the various plants known commonly as "moonflowers," and underscores the need for awareness of the potential toxicity from recreational use of a plant.
Insights
Fourteen adolescents intentionally consumed Datura inoxia seeds, leading to illness. Prompt treatment ensured full recovery, highlighting the risks of recreational moonflower plant use.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Ethnobotany
- Adolescent Health
Background:
- Intentional ingestion of plant materials for recreational purposes poses significant health risks.
- Datura species, commonly known as moonflowers, contain potent psychoactive and toxic alkaloids.
- Adolescent recreational drug use can involve readily accessible but dangerous plant-based substances.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a cluster of adolescent poisonings from intentional Datura inoxia seed ingestion.
- To characterize the clinical presentation and treatment of Datura-related toxicity in adolescents.
- To raise awareness regarding the potential dangers of recreational moonflower use.
Main Methods:
- Case series reporting poisonings reported to a regional poison control center.
- Identification of the toxic plant species through expert consultation.
- Review of clinical outcomes and treatment provided to affected individuals.
Main Results:
- Fourteen adolescents intentionally ingested Datura inoxia seeds or brewed tea.
- Symptoms of toxicity appeared shortly after ingestion.
- All 14 patients received treatment and experienced complete recovery.
Conclusions:
- Datura inoxia ingestion can cause significant toxicity in adolescents.
- Recreational use of moonflower plants presents a public health concern.
- Increased awareness and education are crucial to prevent such poisonings.
