atropine sulfate poisoning

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atropine sulfate poisoning

Etymology: Gk, Atropos, fate; L, sulphur + potio, drink

toxic effects of an overdose of a drug sometimes used as an adjunct to general anesthesia and to treat bradycardia. Symptoms include tachycardia, hot and dry flushed skin, dry mouth with thirst, restlessness and excitement, urinary retention, constipation, and a burning pain in the throat.

atropine sulfate poisoning

Poisoning caused by ingestion of atropine, resulting in anticholinergic side effects of restlessness, dry mouth, fever, hot and dry skin, pupillary dilation, tachycardia, hallucinations, delirium, and coma. Synonym: atropinism

Patient care

Oxygen is given; a cardiac monitor, oximeter, and automated blood pressure cuff are applied; and intravenous fluids are administered. Patients experiencing restlessness may respond to the administration of a benzodiazepine (such as lorazepam or diazepam). If the atropine has been ingested orally, gastric lavage with activated charcoal may absorb some of the toxin from the gastrointestinal tract. Severe neurological side effects (such as seizures) may be treated with physostigmine.