Strychnine
Background
Strychnine is a highly toxic sabustance, it mimics generalized tetanus.It antagonizes glycine release, but unlike TS, it has no effect on GABA release.
Clinical Features
- nausea and vomiting
- opisthotonus while Pt. remaining alert
- convulsions
- eventually death through asphyxia
Differential Diagnosis
- generalized tetanus
- Black widow spider bite
- Dystonic reaction
- stiff-man syndrome
Workup
serum and urine tests for strychnine
Management
- supportive management
- benzo for seizure
Disposition
- all patients should be admitted
See Also
Sources
rosen, 7th edition p1684