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Updated: Dec 25, 2025

Methods for ECG Evaluation of Indicators of Cardiac Risk, and Susceptibility to Aconitine-induced Arrhythmias in Rats Following Status Epilepticus
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A 4-Year-Old With Altered Mental Status and Bradycardia After Clonidine Overdose

Thomas L Pietrantonio1, Doug Swanson2

  • 1MedCenter Air, Atrium Health, Charlotte, NC.

Air Medical Journal
|March 22, 2020
PubMed

Insights

Clonidine overdose in a pediatric patient mimicked opiate intoxication, requiring airway management due to declining mental status. The child was successfully extubated the next day, demonstrating a positive outcome.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Emergency Medicine
  • Clinical Toxicology

Background:

  • Clonidine overdose in children presents similarly to opioid intoxication.
  • Management is typically supportive, focusing on vital sign stabilization.

Observation:

  • A pediatric patient experienced a clonidine overdose with declining mental status and airway compromise within 1-2 hours post-ingestion.
  • This necessitated immediate airway protection during transport.

Findings:

  • The case highlights the need for vigilant monitoring of airway status in pediatric clonidine overdose.
  • Prompt airway management, including intubation, may be required despite initial supportive care.

Implications:

  • This case underscores the potential for rapid deterioration in pediatric clonidine overdose.
  • Early recognition and intervention for airway compromise are critical for successful patient outcomes.

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