Cicutoxin

From WikiMD's Food, Medicine & Wellness Encyclopedia

Cicutoxin is a poisonous unsaturated alcohol that is found in the water hemlock (Cicuta species). It is a potent neurotoxin that induces violent convulsions and has been used as a poison throughout history.

Chemical Structure[edit | edit source]

Cicutoxin is a polyyne, a type of organic compound with alternating single and triple bonds. It is a highly unsaturated primary alcohol with the molecular formula C17H22O2.

Toxicity[edit | edit source]

Cicutoxin is a highly toxic compound. It acts as a direct stimulant on the central nervous system, causing violent convulsions and death by respiratory failure. The lethal dose for humans is estimated to be about 2 mg/kg body weight.

Symptoms of Poisoning[edit | edit source]

Symptoms of cicutoxin poisoning include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, tremors, confusion, seizures, and respiratory failure. These symptoms can occur within a few minutes to a few hours after ingestion.

Treatment[edit | edit source]

There is no specific antidote for cicutoxin poisoning. Treatment is supportive and includes measures to control seizures, maintain respiratory function, and manage other symptoms.

See Also[edit | edit source]

Cicutoxin Resources
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD