Toxicity following accidental ingestion of Aconitum containing Chinese remedy

Hum Exp Toxicol. 1996 Oct;15(10):839-42. doi: 10.1177/096032719601501008.

Abstract

Various species of Aconitum are commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine. These plants are known to contain highly potent cardiotoxins. A 22 year old Chinese male accidentally ingested a herbal liniment prepared from Aconitum with near fatal results. His ventricular tachyarrhythmias responded to standard treatment including the use of i.v. magnesium.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aconitine / adverse effects*
  • Adult
  • Chromatography, High Pressure Liquid
  • Drugs, Chinese Herbal / adverse effects*
  • Drugs, Chinese Herbal / metabolism
  • Humans
  • Injections, Intravenous
  • Magnesium / administration & dosage
  • Magnesium / therapeutic use*
  • Male
  • Tachycardia / chemically induced*
  • Tachycardia / drug therapy

Substances

  • Drugs, Chinese Herbal
  • Magnesium
  • Aconitine