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Toxicity From Blue Lotus (Nymphaea caerulea) After Ingestion or Inhalation: A Case Series
Mackenzie Schimpf1, Thomas Ulmer1, Hugh Hiller1
1Department of Emergency Medicine, Carl R. Darnall Army Medical Center, Fort Hood, TX 76544, USA.
Military Medicine
|August 4, 2021
Summary
Novel psychoactive substances like blue lotus (Nymphaea caerulea) can cause altered mental status. Emergency departments should be aware of these emerging substances, as standard drug screens may not detect them.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Toxicology
- Emergency Medicine
Background:
- Novel psychoactive substances (NPS) are increasingly available in various forms, including plant extracts.
- Blue lotus (Nymphaea caerulea) is a plant extract known for its psychoactive properties, including euphoria and hallucinations.
- The use of electronic cigarettes has facilitated the delivery of diverse psychoactive substances, posing challenges for detection and management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe a case series of patients presenting with altered mental status after using blue lotus products.
- To highlight the importance of recognizing emerging psychoactive substances in emergency department settings.
- To inform healthcare providers about the clinical presentation and management of blue lotus toxicity.
Main Methods:
- A case series of five active duty patients presenting to the emergency department with altered mental status.
- Review of patient symptoms and management strategies.
- Analysis of the route of administration (vaping or infused beverage).
Main Results:
- All five patients experienced altered mental status, primarily sedation and perceptual disturbances.
- Four patients reported vaping blue lotus products, and one consumed an infused beverage.
- Patients were successfully managed with supportive care, without requiring sedating agents.
Conclusions:
- Blue lotus products can cause significant psychoactive effects and altered mental status.
- Healthcare providers must be vigilant for novel psychoactive substances not detectable by standard drug screens.
- Early recognition and supportive management are key in cases of undifferentiated altered mental status due to emerging substances.
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