[Cibalen poisoning in an infant]

J Riedler1

  • 1Kinderspital Salzburg.

Padiatrie Und Padologie
|January 1, 1988
PubMed

Insights

Toxicological analysis of infant urine revealed severe neurological symptoms, including apnea, caused by an overdose of Phenobarbital, Aminophenazon, and Codeine Phosphate from suppositories.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric toxicology
  • Clinical pharmacology
  • Neurology

Background:

  • A 7-week-old infant received two Cibalen suppositories for an upper respiratory infection.
  • The suppositories contained Phenobarbital, Aminophenazon, and Codeine Phosphate.

Observation:

  • Neurological symptoms including coma, hypertonus, opisthotonus, miosis, and respiratory depression were observed 2 hours after the second suppository.
  • Apnea occurred 10 hours after the second suppository administration.

Findings:

  • The observed symptoms were attributed to a synergistic toxic effect of the medications.
  • An overhigh dosage of Phenobarbital, Aminophenazon, and Codeine Phosphate was implicated.

Implications:

  • Urine toxicological investigation is crucial for diagnosing drug-induced neurological abnormalities in infants.
  • Highlights the risks of polypharmacy and potential for overdose in pediatric patients.
  • Emphasizes the need for careful dosing and monitoring of medications in neonates and infants.

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