Diphenhydramine Poisoning Treated by Exchange Transfusion

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Abstract
Introduction Diphenhydramine * has been widely used since 1946 as an effective antihistamine and mild sedative. While the common side effects associated with therapeutic dosage are well recognized,1 frank intoxication is an uncommon and serious condition. During the years 1946 through 1961 four cases of diphenhydramine poisoning are found in the records of the Childrens Hospital of Los Angeles. There were no deaths in these cases. It is the purpose of this report to present a case in which exchange transfusion was used and to review briefly the subject of diphenhydramine intoxication. Report of Case A 15½-month-old Caucasian girl developed marked hyperactivity and muscle twitching one hour after ingesting an unknown number of red and white capsules. She was then subjected to gastric lavage at another hospital. After this she developed generalized seizures and was brought to the Childrens Hospital emergency room approximately five hours after the ingestion. Information identifying the