Symptomatic bradycardia due to nicotine intoxication

Rev Bras Ter Intensiva. 2018 Mar;30(1):121-126. doi: 10.5935/0103-507x.20180018.
[Article in English, Portuguese]

Abstract

Nicotine is a dangerous substance extracted from tobacco leaves. When nicotine is absorbed in excessive amounts, it can lead to respiratory failure and cardiac arrest. The commercialization of electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) has allowed users to directly handle e-cigarette liquid. Consequently, the risk of liquid nicotine exposure has increased. We describe our experience of managing the case of a patient who orally ingested a high concentration of liquid nicotine from e-cigarette liquid. The patient presented with bradycardia and hypotension, which are symptoms of parasympathetic stimulation, together with impaired consciousness. He recovered following treatment with atropine and a vasopressor.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Atropine / therapeutic use
  • Bradycardia / drug therapy
  • Bradycardia / etiology*
  • Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems*
  • Humans
  • Hypotension / drug therapy
  • Hypotension / etiology
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Nicotine / poisoning*
  • Vasoconstrictor Agents / therapeutic use

Substances

  • Vasoconstrictor Agents
  • Nicotine
  • Atropine