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Journal of Medical Case Reports

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Open Access 01-12-2015 | Case report

“Herbal seizures” – atypical symptoms after ibogaine intoxication: a case report

Authors: Lorenz Breuer, Burkhard S. Kasper, Bernd Schwarze, Juergen M. Gschossmann, Johannes Kornhuber, Helge H. Müller

Published in: Journal of Medical Case Reports | Issue 1/2015

Abstract

Introduction

Misuse of various new psychotropic substances such as ibogaine is increasing rapidly. Knowledge of their negative side effects is sparse.

Case presentation

We present a case of intoxication with the herbal substance ibogaine in a 22-year-old white man. After taking a cumulative dose of 38 g (taken in two doses), he developed visual memories, nausea and vomiting. He developed a generalized tonic–clonic seizure with additional grand mal seizures. He was treated with midazolam and levetiracetam. Extended drug screenings and computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging findings were all negative.

Conclusions

Knowledge of the side effects of ibogaine has mainly come from reports of cardiovascular complications; seizures are rarely mentioned and experimental findings are inconsistent. It seems that ibogaine acts like a proconvulsive drug at high doses.

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Title: “Herbal seizures” – atypical symptoms after ibogaine intoxication: a case report
Authors: Lorenz Breuer
Burkhard S. Kasper
Bernd Schwarze
Juergen M. Gschossmann
Johannes Kornhuber
Helge H. Müller
Publication date: 01-12-2015
Publisher: BioMed Central
Published in: Journal of Medical Case Reports / Issue 1/2015
Electronic ISSN: 1752-1947
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s13256-015-0731-4

At a glance: The ONWARDS insulin icodec trials

Springer Medicine

“Herbal seizures” – atypical symptoms after ibogaine intoxication: a case report

Abstract

Introduction

Case presentation

Conclusions

At a glance: The ONWARDS insulin icodec trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Introduction

Case presentation

Conclusions

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