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Updated: Jun 10, 2026
11:14
Rapid High-throughput Species Identification of Botanical Material Using Direct Analysis in Real Time High Resolution Mass Spectrometry
Published on: October 2, 2016
[Datura intoxication--report of three cases]
Agnieszka Nowak1, Stanisław Łata
1Szpital Wojewódzki im. Sw.Łukasza, Tarnów II Oddział Chorób Wewnetrznych i Ostrych Zatruć.
Przeglad Lekarski
|August 6, 2010
Summary
Datura seed poisoning is increasing due to its hallucinogenic properties and use as an intoxicant. Tropine alkaloids like atropine and scopolamine cause poisoning, potentially leading to fatal respiratory paralysis.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Pharmacology
- Public Health
Background:
- Datura, a widespread plant with hallucinogenic properties, is increasingly implicated in seed poisoning incidents.
- This rise coincides with observed increases in recreational drug experimentation among younger demographics.
Observation:
- Datura seed poisoning is linked to the presence of tropine alkaloids, specifically atropine and scopolamine.
- These alkaloids exert their effects by suppressing the peripheral parasympathetic nervous system.
Findings:
- High doses of datura alkaloids can induce severe poisoning, manifesting as respiratory paralysis and potentially leading to death.
- Treatment strategies are primarily symptomatic, focusing on managing the adverse effects of the alkaloids.
Implications:
- Antagonistic medications, such as neostigmine, are utilized to counteract the toxic effects of atropine.
- Understanding the mechanism of action and effective treatments for datura poisoning is crucial for public health interventions.
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