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Black nightshade poisoning
Definition
This is poisoning caused by eating pieces of the black nightshade plant.
Alternative Names
Poisonous Ingredient
- Solanine (very toxic even in small quantities)
- Atropine
Where Found
Black nightshade plant, especially in the unripened fruit and leaves.
Symptoms
Gastrointestinal
- Stomach pain
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
Heart and blood
Nervous system
- Headache
- Delirium
- Loss of sensation
- Hallucinations
- Paralysis
Whole body
- Temperature - lower than normal
- Fever
- Sweating
Lungs
Eyes, ears, nose, mouth, and throat
- Dilated pupils
Before Calling Emergency
Determine the following information:
- Patient's age, weight, and condition
- Name of the plant, if known
- Time it was swallowed
- Amount swallowed
The National Poison Control Center (1-800-222-1222) can be called from anywhere in the United States. This national hotline number will let you talk to experts in poisoning. They will give you further instructions.
This is a free and confidential service. All local poison control centers in the U.S. use this national number. You should call if you have any questions about poisoning or poison prevention. It does NOT need to be an emergency. You can call for any reason, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Bring the plant with you to the emergency room, if possible.
What to Expect at the Emergency Room
The health care provider will measure and monitor the patient's vital signs, including temperature, pulse, breathing rate, and blood pressure.
The patient may receive:
- Medicines to make the person throw up
- Medicines to treat symptoms
- Activated charcoal
- A nasogastric (NG) tube thru the nose into the stomach to empty the stomach (gastric lavage)
Outlook (Prognosis)
The faster a person get treatment, the better the chance for recovery. In rare cases, people who have black nightshade poisoning have died.
Reviewed By: Eric Perez, MD, Department of Emergency Medicine, St. Luke's-RooseveltHospital Center, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed HealthcareNetwork.
