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Fatal heat-stroke in a child taking appetite-suppressant drugs

M C Kew, M Hopp, A Rothberg

    South African Medical Journal = Suid-Afrikaanse Tydskrif Vir Geneeskunde
    |December 4, 1982
    PubMed

    Insights

    Appetite suppressants containing sympathomimetic amines can cause heat intolerance. An 11-year-old girl experienced heat stroke during a hike due to these medications.

    Area of Science:

    • Pediatrics
    • Environmental Medicine
    • Pharmacology

    Background:

    • Weight-reducing regimens in children require careful monitoring.
    • Appetite suppressants, particularly sympathomimetic amines, are sometimes used.
    • Understanding medication side effects in diverse environmental conditions is crucial.

    Observation:

    • An 11-year-old girl developed heat stroke during a nature hike.
    • The ambient temperature was 34 degrees C.
    • The patient was taking two appetite-suppressant agents for weight reduction.

    Findings:

    • Sympathomimetic amines increase endogenous heat production via central nervous system stimulation.
    • These agents impair heat dissipation through peripheral vasoconstriction.
    • The patient's condition was likely exacerbated by medication-induced heat intolerance.

    Implications:

    • Physicians should consider environmental factors when prescribing appetite suppressants.
    • Heat intolerance is a significant risk associated with sympathomimetic amine use.
    • Pediatric weight management strategies must prioritize patient safety and avoid adverse drug reactions.

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