Citation

Jerónimo A, Meira C, Amaro A, Campello GC, Granja C. Arq. Bras. Cardiol. 2009; 92(3): e16-18.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2009, Sociedad Brasileira De Cardiologia)

DOI

10.1590/s0066-782x2009000300016

PMID

19390700

Abstract

Drug intoxication with disulfiram is a rare condition that may lead to severe and potentially fatal cardiovascular manifestations such as cardiogenic shock. We report the case of a female patient with refractory shock after deliberate self-poisoning with disulfiram. Clinical, biochemical and echocardiographic assessment, as well as invasive monitoring confirmed cardiogenic shock associated with this drug. The known mechanisms of action of disulfiram are discussed, and the major collateral effects, especially cardiovascular effects, are described. We underscore the importance of suspecting this diagnosis and of adopting prompt and the most adequate therapeutic approach in this context.

Language: en

Keywords

Alcohol Deterrents; Disulfiram; Female; Humans; Middle Aged; Shock, Cardiogenic; Suicide, Attempted