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Encainide overdose in an infant
M E Mortensen1, C E Bolon, M T Kelley
1Divisions of Clinical Pharmacology/Toxicology, Ohio State University, Columbus.
Annals of Emergency Medicine
|August 1, 1992
Insights
A single encainide tablet caused life-threatening arrhythmias in a child. Healthcare providers must recognize that small doses of adult medications can be toxic to pediatric patients.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Cardiology
- Clinical Toxicology
Background:
- Encainide is an antiarrhythmic medication.
- Pediatric patients are vulnerable to adverse drug reactions.
Observation:
- A child experienced severe ventricular arrhythmias after ingesting a single encainide tablet.
- Intraosseous access facilitated rapid medication and fluid administration.
Findings:
- Even small amounts of adult-dosage encainide can induce life-threatening arrhythmias in children.
- Prompt medical intervention is crucial in managing pediatric drug toxicity.
Implications:
- Prehospital care providers need education on pediatric drug toxicity risks.
- Dosage forms and concentrations of adult medications require careful consideration for pediatric use.
- This case highlights the critical need for child-appropriate medication formulations and awareness of potential toxicity in pediatric emergencies.
Abstract:
Ingestion of as little as a single tablet of encainide resulted in life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias in a child. Insertion of an intraosseous line permitted prompt delivery of medications and fluids. Prehospital care providers must be aware that apparently trivial amounts of some adult dosage forms can be toxic to small children.