Bromism after prolonged use of carbromal

Most of the brominated monoureide and bromide salt containing drugs are obtainable in Belgium without prescription. Apart from the regularly encountered suicidal attempts, these drugs can also, without the intention of the patient, cause bromism . We report two cases of patients recently admitted because of bromism after prolonged use of Carbromal . Bromism now has become a rather unfamiliar condition. Therefore diagnostic and therapeutic aspects are briefly discussed. Because we dispose now, for the same indications, of more efficient and much less toxic drugs, we suggest that drugs containing a significant amount of brominated monoureides or bromide salts should be removed from the market.