Jimsonweed (Datura stramonium) Exposures in Texas, 1998–2004

Abstract

For centuries, jimsonweed, Datura stramonium, was known to produce hallucinogenic effects. Jimsonweed is easily obtained and may be abused by adolescents. This investigation examined the patterns of jimsonweed exposures reported to Texas poison control centers during 1998–2004. A total of 188 reported human exposures were identified. Seventy-six percent of the exposures occurred in June–October. For those cases where the information was known, the majority were male (82%) and age 13–19 yr (72%). Intentional abuse or misuse accounted for 78% of reported exposures. Eighty-two percent of the reported exposures were at, en route to, or referred to health care facilities, and 89% of those cases with a known medical outcome had moderate or major effects. The most frequently reported clinical effects were hallucination, tachycardia, agitation, mydriasis, and confusion; the most frequently reported treatments were intravenous fluids replacement, activated charcoal, cathartic, and benzodiazepines. The pattern of reported jimsonweed exposures in Texas was consistent with previously published literature.

Funding for this research was provided by a contract with the Commission on State Emergency Communications in Texas. I thank the staff of the six poison control centers (Central Texas Poison Center, North Texas Poison Center, Panhandle Poison Center, South Texas Poison Center, Southeast Texas Poison Center, West Texas Regional Poison Center) of the TPCN who collected the data.

Notes

Forberger, T. A. 1998. Jimsonweed (Datura stramonium). Product No. 98-B007–003. National Drug Intelligence Center, Johnstown, PA.