Journal of The Korean Society of Clinical Toxicology

A Case of Amitraz Insecticide Intoxication after Ingestion of Large Amount: Joo-Hyun Suh, Hyung-Keun Roh; J Korean Soc Clin Toxicol. 2008;6(1):52-56. Published online June 30, 2008

Abstract PDF: Amitraz is used as farm-animal insecticide. Its side effects in humans are related to its pharmacological activity on alpha 2-adrenergic receptors. The case describes a previously healthy 46-year-old woman who intentionally ingested approximately 250mL of liquid amitraz. She presented with vomiting, altered mental status, miosis, dry mouth, hypopnea, metabolic and respiratory acidosis, hypotension, hypothermia, polyuria, metabolic acidosis, elevated serum aminotransferase and abdominal distension. Supportive treatments including mechanical ventilation, hydration, dopamine infusion, bicarbonate infusion and gastric decompression resulted in improvement. By hospital day 3, she recovered with resolution of abdominal distension. It is paramount to recognize amitraz poisoning when a pesticide-intoxicated patient presets with signs and symptoms consistent with organophosphate intoxicated patients but with greater alpha 2-adrenergic related symptoms such as decreased bowel motility and xerostomia.

A Case of a Patient with Stuporous Mentality and Hypotension after Amitraz Ingestion: Si-Young Jung, Jin-Hee Jung, Eun-Kyung Eo; J Korean Soc Clin Toxicol. 2007;5(2):123-125. Published online December 31, 2007

Abstract PDF: Amitraz is a formamidine-derived insecticide and acaricide which is commonly used throughout the world. Amitraz intoxication is mediated through ${alpha}_2$ adrenergic receptor agonist effects, similar to those of the ${alpha}_2$ agonist clonidine. We report a case of a patient who experienced coma and hypotension after amitraz ingestion. A 37-year-old woman visited the ER with symptoms of vomiting and altered mental state. She had ingested a mouthful of liquid amitraz concentrate (12.5%), which rapidly led to vomiting, hypotension, bradycardia, hyperglycemia, and mental stupor. Supportive treatment, including mechanical ventilation and administration of inotropics, resulted in full recovery within four days.

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