JIST

Abstract

Background: Strychnine is one of the oldest compound which has been used as medicine in age olden days. Later the toxic nature of the compound has been revealed and if untreated can lead to death within minutes to hours depending on the amount of consumption. Literature about the strychnine toxicity is sparsely published.

Material and methods: A case series of four members of family with strychnine poisoning who got recovered with appropriate critical care management is described in this article. 

Results: All cases in our case series survived by early and timely interventions and avoidance of complications. All essential details from this cases were collected. Study of this literature showed the use of drugs varying from benzodiazepines to other sedatives and paralytics essentially to control seizures and likely complications being observed with Strychnine. Outcome has improved when compared to olden days which can be attributed to evolution of acute care medical facilities. 

Conclusions: Though there is no antidote, adequate supportive care along with avoiding complications can show good prognosis as in our case series. Death occurs mainly by respiratory failure which should be taken care by early intubation and mechanical ventilation.