Toxicity produced by ingestion of strychnine.
Strychnine is a toxic compound present in the seeds of Strychnos species, a collection of tropical trees and shrubs. Its primary application is in certain rodent poisons. The majority of strychnine poisoning instances involve children who unintentionally consume these poisons.
The signs, which commence shortly after consuming the poison, encompass unease, facial and neck rigidity, heightened sensitivity in hearing, taste, and smell, along with light sensitivity. Subsequently, there are alternating bouts of seizures and limpness. In some cases, death may result due to respiratory failure.
The affected individual receives intravenous injections of a tranquilizer or barbiturate, and if necessary, a muscle-relaxant medication, to mitigate the likelihood of seizures. Ventilatory assistance may be employed to sustain breathing. With swift intervention, recuperation typically takes place within approximately 24 hours.