Pediatric Neem powder poisoning: a report of two cases and a review of toxicity mechanisms

Yogendra Shrestha*, Kantharaja Jain, Pooja Anjanappa , Lalini Deva, Harini Karimanal

Department of Pharmacy Practice, Seven Hills College of Pharmacy, Tirupati, India

Refer this article

Yogendra Shrestha, Kantharaja Jain, Pooja Anjinappa, Lalini Deva, Harini Karimanal, 2024. Pediatric Neem powder poisoning: a report of two cases and a review of toxicity mechanisms. Journal of medical pharmaceutical and allied sciences, V 13 - I 4, Pages - 6709 – 6712. Doi: https://doi.org/10.55522/jmpas.V13I4.6609.

ABSTRACT

Neem (Azadirachta indica) is a plant known for its wide array of therapeutic properties, derived from its diverse phytochemical makeup. Despite its medicinal benefits, neem can pose significant toxicity risks, especially in children. This report presents two pediatric cases of neem powder poisoning. The first case involves a two-year-old boy who ingested neem powder with milk, resulting in seizures and fatal cardiac arrest. The second case describes a six-year-old boy who experienced vomiting after consuming neem powder with milk. Prompt medical intervention, including gastric lavage and supportive care, led to his stabilization and discharge. Neem’s toxicity is attributed to compounds like azadirachtin, which disrupt mitochondrial function, leading to symptoms such as seizures, vomiting, and hepatic stress. These cases highlight the importance of recognizing the potential dangers of neem and underscore the need for public health education and regulatory oversight to prevent such adverse outcomes in pediatric populations.

Keywords:

Pediatric Neem powder poison, Azadirachta indica, Mitochondrial function, Hepatic stress, Supportive care, Public health education.

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