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Treatment of phenobarbital poisoning with multiple dose activated charcoal in an infant
1Department of Pediatrics, Hadassah University Hospital, Mt. Scopus, Jerusalem, Israel.
Insights
Multiple dose activated charcoal (MDAC) safely and effectively treated a phenobarbital overdose in a newborn. This approach accelerated drug elimination, demonstrating MDAC
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Toxicology
- Pharmacology
- Emergency Medicine
Background:
- Phenobarbital overdose in neonates can cause severe central nervous system depression.
- Accurate dosing and timely intervention are critical for managing pediatric drug toxicity.
- Pharmacist errors can lead to accidental medication overdoses in vulnerable populations.
Abstract:
A 28-day-old infant developed lethargy, hypotonia, and hypothermia following a phenobarbital overdose secondary to a pharmacist's error. He was treated with multiple dose activated charcoal (MDAC) and alkalinization of the urine, which resulted in prompt recovery with rapid elimination of the drug (t1/2-11.2 hours, expected 45 to 118 hours). The use of MDAC in this newborn was safe and effective. We suggest that age should not pose a barrier to the use of MDAC, when indicated.