Medicine Poisoning and Toxicology for UPSC CMS: Organophosphates, Snake Bite and Common Poisons

Organophosphate Poisoning#

Cholinergic excess. SLUDGE: Salivation, Lacrimation, Urination, Defecation, GI cramps, Emesis. Muscle fasciculations, miosis, bronchorrhea, bradycardia.

Treatment: Atropine (titrate to dry secretions) + PAM (oxime) + supportive care. Measure via PAM before giving.

Snake Bite#

Viper (hemotoxic): Local swelling, bleeding, coagulopathy, AKI. Treatment: ASV (anti-snake venom), wound care.

Cobra/Krait (neurotoxic): Ptosis, respiratory paralysis. Treatment: ASV, ventilatory support.

Carbon Monoxide#

Cherry-red skin, headache, confusion, COHb >10%. Treatment: 100% O2, Hyperbaric O2 if severe.