Dexmedetomidine to Treat 3, 4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine-Induced Agitation in a 13-Month-Old Infant: A Case Report and Literature Review

Abstract

We report a 13-month-old infant who accidentally ingested a tablet of 3, 4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) and was brought to the emergency department with tachycardia, seizures, mydriasis, and altered mental status. The patient received multiple doses of benzodiazepines to treat the seizures and developed respiratory insufficiency needing intubation. After extubation, the patient developed hyperactivity, myoclonic, and choreoathetoid movements which were unresponsive to benzodiazepines. Dexmedetomidine was started with good response. The patient made a full clinical recovery. This is the first case that illustrates the possibility to treat MDMA-induced agitation with dexmedetomidine in a 13-month-old infant.

Keywords

MDMA - dexmedetomidine - infant

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