Plant Toxicity

Question 1

Jimsonweed toxicity is caused by:

Answer 1

Triplane alkaloids

Question 2

The toxic chemicals in Jimsonweed are:

Answer 2

1) Atropine
2) Hyoscine (Scopolamine)
3) Hyoscyamine

Question 3

Clinical signs of Jimsonweed poisoning?

Answer 3

1) Cycloplegia (Loss of power in the ciliary muscle of the eye)

2) Mydriasis (Dilation)

3) Flushed, warm, and dry skin

4) Dry mouth

5) Urinary retention (fatal)

6) Rapid heart beat

7) Hypertension/hypotension

8) Blurred vision (most persistent)

Question 4

What causes fatalities in Jimsonweed poisoning?

Answer 4

Trauma or drowning

Question 5

Antidote for Jimsonweed?

Answer 5

Physostigmine

Question 6

What is the role of Physostigmine?

Answer 6

Reversible inhibitor of the cholinesterases, and prevents destruction of acetylcholine

Question 7

Which toxins are found in Oleander?

Answer 7

1) Oleandrin
2) Neriine
(Cardiac glycosides)

Question 8

What do cardiac glycosides do?

Answer 8

Inhibit Na/K pump = depletes intracellular potassium but increases serum potassium

Question 9

Clinical effects of Oleander?

Answer 9

1) GI symptoms (Nausea, Vomiting, Diarrhea, excess salivation)

2) Cardiac symptoms (Irregular rate and circulation)

3) Respiratory symptoms (dyspnea)

4) Ocular symptoms (dilated pupils, impaired vision)

5)

Question 10

Antidote for cardiac glycosides?

Answer 10

Digoxin immune fab