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Clonidine patch ingestion in an adult
J H Raber1, C Shinar, S Finkelstein
1Clinipharm Services, Seal Beach, CA 90740.
The Annals of Pharmacotherapy
|June 1, 1993
Summary
This case report details an adult deliberately ingesting a clonidine patch for opiate withdrawal, experiencing severe bradycardia and obtundation. It highlights the risks of clonidine overdose and the need for suicide risk assessment before prescribing.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Toxicology
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Clonidine is used for opiate detoxification.
- Accidental clonidine patch ingestion is documented in children.
- Deliberate adult ingestion of clonidine patches is not previously reported.
Observation:
- An adult patient with major depression and polysubstance abuse ingested a 5 mg clonidine patch.
- The patient presented with obtundation and profound sinus bradycardia.
- Symptoms were managed medically.
Findings:
- Deliberate clonidine patch ingestion in adults can lead to severe adverse effects.
- Hypotension and bradycardia are primary concerns in clonidine overdose.
- Symptomatic management is effective for clonidine toxicity.
Implications:
- Clonidine therapy for withdrawal requires careful suicide risk assessment.
- Patients with suicidal ideation or history should not receive topical clonidine.
- This case underscores the importance of psychiatric evaluation in medication management.