Excessive absorption of carbon tetrachloride results in a clinical complex manifesting depression of the central nervous system (CNS) followed by hepatic and renal damage. Infrared analysis of the breath is a rapid, specific means of establishing the diagnosis and estimating the amount of drug absorbed. Prompt initiation of intravenous therapy with mannitol may minimize the renal damage and prevent renal failure. These principles are illustrated by the case history of a woman aged 29 who, in an unsuccessful attempt at suicide, ingested a mixture of carbon tetrachloride and methanol.