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Pemoline toxicosis in a dog
S P Cudia1, R H Poppenga, W J Birdsall
1Department of Clinical Studies, Pennsylvania Animal Disease Laboratory System, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia 19104-6044, USA.
Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association
|January 14, 1998
Summary
A German Shorthaired Pointer experienced severe central nervous system (CNS) stimulant toxicity after ingesting pemoline. Treatment involved supportive care and decontamination, leading to recovery within 72 hours.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Toxicology
- Pharmacology
- Canine Medicine
Background:
- Pemoline, a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant, is rarely used in veterinary medicine due to potential toxicity.
- Accidental ingestion of CNS stimulants can lead to severe clinical signs in dogs.
Observation:
- A 3-year-old German Shorthaired Pointer presented with extreme agitation, hyperactivity, vomiting, tachycardia, disorientation, and mydriasis within 24 hours of ingesting approximately 750 mg of pemoline.
- Physical examination revealed signs consistent with excessive CNS stimulation and sympathomimetic effects.
Findings:
- Toxicologic analysis estimated a peak plasma pemoline concentration of 368 µg/mL, significantly exceeding therapeutic levels reported in children (1.7–7.0 µg/mL).
- The dog's clinical signs were indicative of severe pemoline toxicosis.
Implications:
- This case highlights the potential for severe toxicity from pemoline overdose in dogs, even at doses not typically considered lethal.
- Prompt supportive care, including sedation and gastrointestinal decontamination with activated charcoal, is crucial for managing pemoline toxicosis in canines.
- Veterinarians should be aware of the risks associated with pemoline exposure in companion animals.