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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jul 12, 2026

Biochemical Measurement of Neonatal Hypoxia

Biochemical Measurement of Neonatal Hypoxia

Published on: August 24, 2011

Fatal methadone intoxication in a child.

Roy Riascos¹, Paul Kumfa, Rafael Rojas

¹Radiology Department, The University of Texas Medical Branch, 301 University Blvd-Route 0709, Galveston, TX 77555-0709, USA. roriasco@utmb.edu

Emergency Radiology

|June 2, 2007

Summary

Methadone overdose can be fatal in young children. This case report details a lethal outcome in a 22-month-old child following accidental methadone ingestion.

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Area of Science:

Toxicology
Pediatric Medicine
Pharmacology

Background:

Methadone is a synthetic opioid commonly used for opioid use disorder treatment.
It is typically administered orally and has a long duration of action.
Accidental ingestion poses a significant risk, especially in pediatric populations.

Observation:

A 22-month-old child experienced methadone intoxication.
The ingestion was accidental, highlighting potential household risks.
The case resulted in a fatal outcome.

Findings:

Pediatric methadone toxicity can lead to severe adverse events, including death.
The oral route of administration in children necessitates strict storage and supervision.
Even therapeutic doses, if ingested inappropriately by a child, can be lethal.

Implications:

Highlights the critical need for child-resistant packaging and safe storage of methadone.
Emphasizes the importance of parental education regarding the risks of pediatric opioid exposure.
Underscores the potential for fatal outcomes in pediatric methadone poisoning, necessitating prompt medical intervention.