How to Treat Strychnine Poisoning

Strychnine is a powerful poison derived from the seeds of the Strychnine tree (Strychnos nux vomica). It should not be used as a pesticide because safer alternatives are available. Fatal exposure in humans can be achieved through inhalation or ingestion. The following steps will help you identify and treat a case of strychnine poisoning.

Instructions

• 1

  Know the symptoms of strychnine poisoning that usually appear within 15 to 30 minutes of exposure. These include agitation, hyperreflexia and muscle twitches. The body arches backwards and the facial muscles contract. The patient is conscious and in extreme pain.

• 2

  Get medical attention immediately. Most victims of strychnine poisoning die of asphyxia before the patient reaches the hospital, but if the condition can be maintained for 6 to 12 hours the prognosis is good.

• 3

  Seek treatment in a hospital for strychnine poisoning. The diagnosis must be evaluated clinically and treatment started before the diagnosis can be confirmed with a laboratory test.

• 4

  Provide supportive therapy and prevent as much sensory input as possible. No specific antidote exists, however, strychnine is broken down readily and almost completely excreted within 24 hours.

• 5

  Control the convulsions with diazepam, phenytoin and Phenobarbital. If these are not effective, general anesthesia should be used along with neuromuscular blocking agents such as tubocurarine or suxamethonium chloride. Provide assisted respiration and oxygen.