Related Experiment Videos
Fatality secondary to misuse of TAC solution.
1Department of Emergency Medicine, Highland General Hospital, Oakland, California 94602.
Annals of Emergency Medicine
|February 1, 1988
Summary
A baby died from accidental cocaine overdose due to misuse of tetracaine/adrenalin/cocaine solution for wound anesthesia. Excessive absorption through nasal mucous membranes led to fatal cocaine toxicity.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Pediatric Medicine
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Tetracaine/adrenalin/cocaine (TAC) solution is used for topical wound anesthesia.
- Improper administration can lead to significant systemic absorption.
Observation:
- A 7 1/2-month-old infant experienced a fatal adverse event.
- The event involved the application of 10 mL of TAC solution.
- The solution contacted the infant's nasal mucous membranes.
Findings:
- The infant's death was likely caused by cocaine toxicity.
- Post-mortem blood cocaine levels were measured at 11.9 mg/L.
- Excessive drug absorption occurred due to the route and volume of administration.
Implications:
- Highlights the critical importance of correct dosage and administration routes for topical anesthetics in infants.
- Underscores the potential for severe toxicity with TAC solutions, particularly in pediatric patients.
- Emphasizes the need for strict protocols to prevent accidental exposure and overdose in clinical settings.