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A child survived a propafenone overdose, experiencing seizures and cardiac issues. Aggressive life support was crucial for recovery after phenytoin administration.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Clinical Toxicology
- Pediatric Emergency Medicine
Background:
- Propafenone, a type 1c antiarrhythmic, is now in US clinical trials.
- Accidental drug ingestion is a significant concern in pediatric populations.
Observation:
- A 2-year-old child ingested a large dose of propafenone (1,800 mg or 133 mg/kg).
- The child developed cardiac conduction abnormalities and generalized seizures post-ingestion.
Findings:
- Intravenous phenytoin administration led to cardiopulmonary collapse.
- Aggressive cardiopulmonary life support was required for patient stabilization.
Implications:
- This case highlights the potential severe toxicity of propafenone in children.
- Prompt and intensive supportive care is vital for managing propafenone overdose in pediatric patients.
Abstract:
Propafenone is a type 1c antiarrhythmic drug that recently has become available for clinical trials within the United States. We present the case of a 2-year-old child who accidentally ingested 1,800 mg (133 mg/kg) of propafenone. The patient subsequently developed cardiac conduction abnormalities and generalized seizures. Following the administration of IV phenytoin, cardiopulmonary collapse occurred. The patient had a successful outcome with aggressive cardiopulmonary life support.