Snail Bait Toxicity (Metaldehyde)

Question 1

What is the toxic component of snail bait?

Answer 1

Metaldehyde, partial hydrolysis–> acetylaldehyde

Question 2

MOA of toxicity snail bait

Answer 2

Decreases GABA (inhibitory neurotransmitter) leading to CNS excitement, decreased serotonin and norepinephrine–> decreased threshold for convulsions and increased MOA activity

Question 3

CS of snail bait toxicity

Answer 3

Neuro signs within 1-3 hours post ingestion
-muscle tremors, anxiety, hyperesthesia, ataxia, tachycardia, hyperthermia
-acidosis will eventually lead to depression, tachpnea, opisthotonus, continuous tonic convulsions

Question 4

Why does metaldehyde cause acidosis?

Answer 4

Lactic acid buildup and metaldehyde metabolites due to muscle tremors and seizures

Question 5

Treatment for snail bait

Answer 5

AC to decrease enterphepatic cycling
Diazepam, methocarbomal
IVF, sodium bicarb or sodium lactate to correct acidosis
Xylazine for horses