Benzodiazepine Poisoning
Description Diagnostic criteria General and supportive measures Referral ICD-10 code: T42.4 DESCRIPTION Young children or toddlers are typically involved in accidental exposure and ingest small amounts of sedatives. Adolescents may ingest large amounts during suicide, suicidal gesture or for recreational use. DIAGNOSTIC CRITERIA Clinical Cardiorespiratory depression. Decreased level of cons
Description
Diagnostic criteria
General and supportive measures
Referral
ICD-10 code: T42.4
DESCRIPTION
Young children or toddlers are typically involved in accidental exposure and ingest small amounts of sedatives.
Adolescents may ingest large amounts during suicide, suicidal gesture or for recreational use.
DIAGNOSTIC CRITERIA
Clinical
- Cardiorespiratory depression.
- Decreased level of consciousness.
Investigations
- Serum drug levels are of no value in the acute treatment phase.
- Urine test: may have medico-legal implications.
GENERAL AND SUPPORTIVE MEASURES
- If there is respiratory depression, intubate, ventilate and transfer.
- Only supportive treatment only is necessary in most patients.
REFERRAL
- Respiratory depression.
Standard Treatment Guidelines and Essential Medicines List for South Africa, Hospital Level, Paediatrics, 2023 Edition
Chapter 18: Poisoning, 18.1 Poisoning, 18.1.14 Benzodiazepine Poisoning