An uncommon but lethal poisoning - Amitraz

Amitraz, a centrally acting alpha-2 adrenergic agonist, is increasingly being used for treatment of ectoparasitic infestation in cattle. Its effects in humans may mimic organophosphate poisoning. We report a case of poisoning after suicidal ingestion of Amitraz. The patient presented in a deeply comatose state with respiratory depression, bradycardia and mydriasis (instead of miosis, the more common presentation in previous reports). He recovered completely within 24 hours with adequate supportive measures. The importance of this case report is highlighted by the increasing use of this compound, the life-threatening presentation, the excellent prognosis with early recognition and supportive management and the limited human toxicological data.