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Updated: Aug 10, 2026
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Methods for ECG Evaluation of Indicators of Cardiac Risk, and Susceptibility to Aconitine-induced Arrhythmias in Rats Following Status Epilepticus
Published on: April 5, 2011
[Clonidine poisoning in a child: a case report]
C Schmitt1, M Kervégant1, Z Ajaltouni2
1Centre antipoison de Marseille, hôpital Sainte-Marguerite, 270, boulevard Sainte-Marguerite, 13009 Marseille, France.
Summary
A child experienced clonidine poisoning after a tenfold overdose, presenting with hypotension and bradycardia. Naloxone administration, alongside supportive care, aided recovery, highlighting its potential role in managing clonidine toxicity.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Toxicology
- Clinical Pharmacology
Background:
- Clonidine poisoning presents with predictable symptoms, but the minimal toxic dose remains undefined.
- The efficacy of naloxone in treating clonidine overdose is a subject of ongoing debate.
Observation:
- A 9-year-old boy (25 kg) accidentally ingested a tenfold overdose of clonidine (0.23 mg) with betaxolol during a growth hormone test.
- The patient developed drowsiness, hypotension, bradycardia, and miosis approximately 40 minutes post-ingestion.
Findings:
- Supportive measures including Trendelenburg positioning, fluid administration, and salbutamol were initiated.
- Three doses of naloxone (0.2 mg each) were administered, contributing to the patient's recovery.
Implications:
- This case provides insight into the potential minimal toxic dose of clonidine in pediatric patients.
- The successful use of naloxone suggests it may be a valuable adjunct in managing severe clonidine poisoning.
- Further research is warranted to establish definitive treatment protocols for clonidine overdose.
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