Accidental Methadone Intoxication in Young Children: The Urgency of Early Diagnosis, Screening, and Safe Storage

Yusuf, Wan Nazirah Wan and Tang, Suk Peng and Ismail, Norzila and Low, Jen Hou and Rawi, Rowani Mohd (2024) Accidental Methadone Intoxication in Young Children: The Urgency of Early Diagnosis, Screening, and Safe Storage. Journal of Chemical Health Risks, 14 (5). pp. 185-190. ISSN 2251-6727

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Abstract

Accidental methadone intoxication is increasingly recognized as a critical public health concern, particularly in households where opioid medications are accessible. We report accidental poisoning cases involving two young siblings, who presented with severe central nervous system depression, respiratory compromise, and cardiac depression. Initially they were treated as paracetamol intoxication based on information from their mother. Routine drug screening was negative for both patients. However, it was later confirmed as methadone poisoning. Fortunately following intensive therapy, both siblings recovered well without neurological sequelae. The delayed diagnosis underscores the challenges in detecting methadone poisoning with standard toxicology screens, highlighting the need for specialized testing methods not universally available. This case also emphasizes the critical importance of safe medication storage and heightened awareness among caregivers, healthcare providers, and the community regarding the risks associated with methadone exposure in children, especially in environments where opioid maintenance therapies like Methadone Maintenance Therapy (MMT) are prevalent.

Item Type: Article
Uncontrolled Keywords: Methadone, accidental poisoning, opioid dependence, toxicology screening, medication storage
Subjects: R Medicine > RA Public aspects of medicine
R Medicine > RA Public aspects of medicine > RA440-440.87 Study and teaching. Research
Divisions: Kampus Kesihatan (Health Campus) > Pusat Pengajian Sains Perubatan (School of Medical Sciences) > Exam Papers/Teaching Resources
Depositing User: Mr Noor Azizan Abu Hashim
Date Deposited: 02 Oct 2024 04:47
Last Modified: 02 Oct 2024 04:58
URI: http://eprints.usm.my/id/eprint/61239

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