Novaluron and indoxacarb induced methemoglobinemia – unveiling a rare poisoning

Abstract

Introduction and aim. In India, the utilization of agricultural pesticides for intentional self-poisoning is a prevalent method, and it is associated with substantially higher fatality rates compared to other self-poisoning approaches. Plethora, an agricultural insecticide containing novaluron (5.25%) and indoxacarb (4.5%), has recently been introduced and widely used in India and various other regions for its broad-spectrum lepidopteran control. While there have been documented cases of isolated self-poisoning involving indoxacarb, there is currently no literature reporting incidents of human poisoning specifically related to novaluron. Description of the case. An 83-Year-old male was presented to the emergency department (ED) with a history of consumption of 50 mL of an insecticide suspension concentrate called ‘PLETHORA’ to commit suicide. He had one episode of vomiting and dizziness after the ingestion. There was associated cyanosis, and the patient was put on high-flow oxygen at 10 L/min through a face mask. The patient was diagnosed to have methemoglobinemia and was successfully treated with methylene blue and ascorbic acid. One hour post methylene blue injection showed a methemoglobin level of 1%, and the patient gradually improved. Patients presenting with novaluron and indoxacarb poisoning require supportive treatment as there is no specific antidote. There should be a high index of suspicion for methemoglobinemia in such patients, and timely management is necessary to prevent further complications. The patient was successfully managed and discharged after the 3rd day of admission. Conclusion. The management of patients with novaluron and indoxacarb poisoning primarily involves supportive care, as there is currently no specific antidote available for these substances. Maintaining a high suspicion index for the development of methemoglobinemia and timely management of other complications is crucial for the best possible patient outcomes.