Abstract

Strychnine poisoning is an quite unusual but a serious poisoning in which convulsions are the major threat to life. Convulsions are predominantly noted at the spinal level, and the key to recognizing this poison is observation of convulsive activity in the awake patient without a postictal phase. Successful treatment requires aggressive airway control and treatment of seizures with benzodiazepines or barbiturates. Neuromuscular blockade may be required. Gastrointestinal decontamination is usually indicated in recent acute ingestions but may precipitate convulsions. Recovery from strychnine poisoning is usually complete and rapid if treatment is aggressive.

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