3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) Intoxication in an Infant Chronically Exposed to Cocaine
Therapeutic Drug Monitoring – July 22, 2005
Source: OpenAlex
Summary
An infant admitted to the Pediatric Emergency Department exhibited significant levels of MDMA (11.7 mg/L) and its metabolite HMMA (34.4 mg/L) following accidental ingestion. The child experienced febrile convulsions and cardiovascular issues, which resolved within a day after benzodiazepine treatment. Hair analysis indicated chronic cocaine exposure, complicating diagnosis due to the mother's denial of drug presence at home. Ongoing clinical evaluations are planned to monitor potential long-term effects from illicit drug exposure and ensure the child's safety from hazardous environments.
Abstract
Accidental ingestion of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA, ecstasy) was detected in an infant admitted at the Pediatric Emergency Department by drug testing in urine. Concentrations of MDMA and its principal metabolite 4-hydroxy-3-methoxymethamphetamine (HMMA) in the infant's hydrolyzed urine were 11.7 mg/L and 34.4 mg/L, respectively. Apparent febrile convulsions and cardiovascular side effects resolved within 1 day after treatment with benzodiazepines. Chronic exposure to cocaine was evidenced by segmental hair analysis. Continuous maternal denial of the presence of any drug in the household made diagnosis of accidental ingestion of MDMA and chronic exposure to cocaine problematic. Periodic clinical and laboratory follow-ups were requested to check eventual long-term effects of exposure to illicit drugs and discontinuation of the child from exposure to dangerous environments.