How to Spot Strychnine Poisoning

Strychnine is found in the seeds of the tree Strychnos nux vomica that grows in southern Asia and Australia. It is used as a poison for small vertebrates, especially rats, although it has largely been replaced by zinc phosphide in the United States. Strychnine is a bitter substance and can be detected in concentrations of one part per million.

Instructions

• 1

  Detect symptoms of low to moderate strychnine poisoning by any route within 15 to 60 minutes after exposure. The patient will initially be conscious and aware of the symptoms.

• 2

  See symptoms related to the involuntary muscle contractions caused by strychnine. These include an arching of the back and neck, rigid arms and legs, jaw tightness and difficulty breathing.

• 3

  Check for less well-known symptoms of moderate strychnine poisoning, including agitation, dark urine, fear, heightened startle reflex, painful muscle spasms and restlessness.

• 4

  Expect higher doses of strychnine to cause muscle spasms within 10 to 20 minutes. They start at the head and neck and spread to all muscles, and there is a feeling of impending suffocation. The contractions become uncontrollable, and the back arches so severely that only the head and heels rest on the floor. The eyes remain open and the mouth is drawn aside.

• 5

  Beware if the convulsions become nearly continuous and get worse with even slight stimulus. At this point, respiratory failure and death within 2 to 3 hours is inevitable.