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Severe acute intoxication with yohimbine: Four simultaneous poisoning cases
1Center of Forensic Science, Jining Medical University, Jining, Shandong, China.
Forensic Science International
|February 2, 2021
Summary
Yohimbine, used for erectile dysfunction, caused severe poisoning in four men. One death occurred, with yohimbine blood levels significantly elevated in the deceased, highlighting its potential dangers.
Area of Science:
- Forensic Toxicology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Yohimbine, an indole alkaloid from Pausinystalia johimbe, is recognized for treating erectile dysfunction.
- The study investigates severe poisoning cases linked to yohimbine consumption.
Observation:
- Four middle-aged men presented with severe yohimbine poisoning.
- One fatality occurred despite medical intervention.
- Toxicological analysis included gas chromatography-flame ionization detection (GC-FID) and liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS).
Findings:
- A specific LC-MS/MS method quantified yohimbine in blood samples.
- Concentrations ranged from 249-5631 ng/mL.
- The deceased individual had a yohimbine blood concentration of 5631 ng/mL, with autopsy ruling out other causes of death.
Implications:
- Yohimbine poisoning poses a significant health risk.
- Widespread concern is warranted regarding yohimbine's use in supplements and clinical applications.
- Accurate toxicological methods are crucial for identifying yohimbine toxicity.
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