Acute intoxication of lidocaine and chlorpheniramine: report of one case

Yi-Ming Hua1, Chih-Hsing Hung, Yeong-Seng Yuh

  • 1Department of Pediatrics, Tri-Service General Hospital and National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan. guitar@ndmctsgh.edu.tw

Acta Paediatrica Taiwanica = Taiwan Er Ke Yi Xue Hui Za Zhi
|April 28, 2006
PubMed

Insights

Acute toxicity from lidocaine and chlorpheniramine occurred in a 13-month-old child after ingesting a topical medication. This case highlights the dangers of topical agents and their overdose in infants and children.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Toxicology
  • Dermatology
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Topical medications are widely used for various pediatric conditions.
  • Accidental ingestion of topical agents can lead to systemic toxicity.
  • Lidocaine and chlorpheniramine are common ingredients in over-the-counter topical preparations.

Observation:

  • A 13-month-old child presented with acute intoxication.
  • The child ingested a commercial topical agent containing lidocaine and chlorpheniramine.
  • Symptoms included convulsion, coma, tachycardia, fever, and fatigue.

Findings:

  • The case demonstrates severe systemic toxicity from combined lidocaine and chlorpheniramine exposure in an infant.
  • Overdose of topical agents can result in life-threatening pediatric poisoning.
  • Lidocaine toxicity can manifest with neurological and cardiovascular symptoms.

Implications:

  • Increased awareness among parents and healthcare providers regarding the risks of topical agent ingestion in children is crucial.
  • Physicians should counsel caregivers on safe storage and administration of topical medications.
  • Prompt recognition and management of pediatric topical agent poisoning are essential.

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