Saving two lives with one dialysis treatment

Clin Nephrol. 2015 Aug;84(2):104-7. doi: 10.5414/CN108441.

Abstract

Hemodialysis is the extracorporeal treatment of choice for various life-threatening intoxications, with the exception of highly protein-bound substances, which are preferably removed by charcoal hemoperfusion. This technique, however, is limited by its availability and its significant side effects. We present a potentially lifethreatening diphenhydramine (DPH) overdose in a stuporous female patient in which high cut-off hemodialysis was used. Timely detoxification resulted in rapid gain of consciousness, allowing the patient to state the existence and location of another poison victim.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Bipolar Disorder / psychology
  • Cholinesterase Inhibitors / therapeutic use
  • Diphenhydramine / poisoning*
  • Drug Overdose / therapy*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Hypnotics and Sedatives / poisoning*
  • Physostigmine / therapeutic use
  • Renal Dialysis / methods*
  • Suicide, Attempted / psychology
  • Young Adult

Substances

  • Cholinesterase Inhibitors
  • Hypnotics and Sedatives
  • Diphenhydramine
  • Physostigmine