Atropine use in Centruroides scorpion envenomation.

BACKGROUND: Systemic scorpion envenomation may be associated with hypersalivation and respiratory distress. Atropine can dry secretions, but is not recommended for stings from many foreign scorpions, since it exacerbates adrenergic toxicity to the cardiopulmonary system. Serious adrenergic effects, however, are rare with Centruroides sculpturatus envenomation. CASE SERIES: Five cases of Grade IV C. sculpturatus envenomation whose treatment included atropine were found on retrospective review at one poison control center located in a scorpion-endemic area. No clinically significant adverse effects of atropine were noted. In 3 cases, atropine's reversal of hypersalivation and respiratory distress obviated the need for further interventions.