An Intentional Aconite Overdose: A Case Report

BACKGROUND: Aconite is one of the most toxic known herbs, widely used for centuries as an essential Chinese medicine, but also for deliberate poisoning throughout history. Clinically indicated in herbal medicine for a range of ailments from headaches to muscle spasm, unfortunately the narrow therapeutic window may lead to a range of toxic presentations. The mechanism of action of the pharmacologically active compounds in Aconite relate to the activation of voltage gated sodium channels within a range of tissue including myocardial, neuronal and smooth muscle leading to persistent cellular activity. CASE PRESENTATION: We report on a rare case of a fifty year old male with intentional aconite overdose presenting with refractory cardiovascular instability from persistent life threatening arrhythmias, respiratory failure and seizure activity. CONCLUSION: An overview of Aconite, its history, pharmacological effects, treatment of overdose and outcomes is presented.