BROMIDE INTOXICATION

A toxic disorder produced by excessive use of bromides, usually taken to relieve tension, alleviate physical discomfort or induce sleep.Bromide poisoning is not so common today as it was when this drug was widely available in commercial preparations and used for self-medication. It is also less frequently prescribed by physicians for nervous and mental disorders. Yet there is still a problem, since bromides are still overused by many individuals to relieve tension or combat the aftereffects of alcohol. Elderly and arteriosclerotic individuals are particularly susceptible to bromide intoxication.The first signs of bromide intoxication are weakness, irritability, drowsiness, inability to concentrate, and memory defect. If the drug continues to accumulate in the system, it may result in a psychotic reaction that is characterized by confusion, disorientation, clouding of consciousness, restlessness, excitement, apprehension, loss of memory, and hallucinations. These symptoms constitute a delirious state which may last for ten days to two months.Treatment consists in the general elimination of the drug from the body by forcing of liquids and administration of sodium or ammonium chloride. See TOXIC PSYCHOSES.