Citation

Bettinger J. Ann. Emerg. Med. 1980; 9(8): 429-430.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1980, American College of Emergency Physicians, Publisher Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

6773447

Abstract

Massive cocaine intoxication is manifested by central nervous system stimulation (restlessness, tremors, convulsions) and then depression (respiratory and cardiovascular failure). A young man presented with new seizures and eventual development of status epilepticus, respiratory failure, and cardiovascular depression. Investigation revealed ingestion of cocaine-filled condoms which had ruptured in the gastrointestinal tract. Smuggling of illicit drugs via the oral-fecal route may lead to severe physiologic derangements if the container ruptures.

Language: en