Abstract
Background
Herbal medicines are readily available and commonly perceived to be relatively harmless.
Butcher's Broom is used in various medicinal preparations and contains substances
having α-adrenergic−stimulating properties.
Objective
Our aim was to report a case of toxicity associated with Butcher's Broom in a diabetic
patient.
Case Report
A 39-year-old woman developed diabetic ketoacidosis 5 days after beginning therapy
with Butcher's Broom for mild ankle swelling. Her diabetic ketoacidosis was complicated
by hyperkalemia and acidosis with a pH of 7.02. After management with intravenous
fluid, insulin, and calcium gluconate, her condition stabilized and she was discharged
several days later.
Conclusions
This case represents a small but potentially serious public health concern in a diabetic
woman taking Butcher's Broom.
Keywords
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Article info
Publication history
Published online: July 12, 2013
Accepted:
November 29,
2012
Received in revised form:
May 16,
2011
Received:
December 20,
2010
Identification
Copyright
© 2013 Elsevier Inc. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
