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Clonidine poisoning in children

S M Heidemann1, A P Sarnaik

  • 1Department of Pediatrics, Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit, MI.

Critical Care Medicine
|June 1, 1990
PubMed

Insights

Severe clonidine poisoning in children, often toddlers, led to hospitalization and monitoring. Most recovered within 48 hours with symptomatic care, but significant morbidity occurred.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Toxicology
  • Emergency Medicine

Background:

  • Clonidine poisoning is a serious concern in pediatric populations.
  • Accidental ingestion often occurs in toddlers, frequently in unfamiliar environments.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review cases of severe clonidine poisoning in children.
  • To identify typical patient profiles and clinical presentations.
  • To assess outcomes and morbidity associated with clonidine ingestion in pediatric patients.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective review of fourteen pediatric cases of severe clonidine poisoning over a five-year period.
  • Analysis of patient demographics, ingestion circumstances, clinical signs, and treatment received.

Main Results:

  • The typical patient was a healthy toddler who ingested clonidine.
  • Common admission findings included lethargy, bradycardia, and miosis.
  • Hypotension frequently developed post-admission.
  • Recovery was generally achieved within 48 hours with symptomatic treatment.

Conclusions:

  • Clonidine poisoning in children can lead to significant morbidity, including the need for hospitalization, invasive monitoring, and mechanical ventilation.
  • Prompt symptomatic treatment is effective for recovery.
  • Prevention of accidental ingestion in toddlers is crucial.

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