Jimson Weed Poisoning

Excerpt

To the editor: In a recent paper in this journal, Mikolich, Paulson, and Cross (1) described 10 cases of Jimson seed poisoning. They stated, "Induction of emesis may be beneficial in the conscious patient although the belladonna alkaloids are rapidly absorbed." From data obtained in the Emergency Unit of the University of Cincinnati Medical Center, their conclusion about the value of emesis appears to be understated. During September and October of 1975, 15 patients were seen who had swallowed Jimson weed. Serendepitously, one hallucinating patient was made to vomit approximately 36 hours after ingestion of the Jimson weed; the emesis