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  • Title: [Acute digitoxin poisoning].
    Author: Battegay M, Cottier C, Burckhardt D, Ritz R.
    Journal: Schweiz Rundsch Med Prax; 1989 Aug 15; 78(33):880-2. PubMed ID: 2799159.
    Abstract:
    We report a case of severe digitoxin poisoning with--as to our knowledge--the highest plasma concentration reported so far (376 ng/ml). On admission, the patient suffered from nausea and vomiting. The ECG showed a complete AV-block which was managed temporarily by pacing. Phenytoin was given for ventricular tachycardias. The plasma potassium level was 7.4 mmol/l. The elimination of the digitoxin was enhanced with cholestyramine and hemoperfusion. Because of persisting arrhythmias, hyperkalemia and a very high digitoxin level, purified Fab fragments of digoxin-specific antibodies (cross-reacting with digitoxin) were administered. After a first dose of 480 mg nausea disappeared readily, and with a second dose of 480 mg cardiac rhythm disturbances and hyperkalemia were overcome. There were no adverse reactions to treatment. We confirm the effectiveness of digoxin-specific Fab antibody fragments in life-threatening digitoxin intoxication.
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