Bitter pill to swallow: a case of accidental poisoning with digitalis purpurea. (21st October 2010)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Mitchell, Andrew
• Is Part Of: BMJ case reports. Volume 2010
• Publication Date: 2010-10-21
• Subjects: Medicine -- Case studies -- Periodicals; 610.5
• DOI: 10.1136/bcr.01.2010.2633
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1757-790X

Abstract

Abstract : While digitoxicity secondary to therapeutic use is frequent, due to its distinctive appearance and unpleasant taste accidental ingestion of digitalis purpurea (foxglove) is uncommon. This report relates the case of two previously healthy individuals who inadvertently consumed significant quantities of digitalis in its plant form. Both men presented in first-degree atrioventricular block and had digoxin levels of 4.9 μg/litre, but were otherwise stable and made unremarkable recoveries with repeated dose activated charcoal.