A Rare Case of Viagra Induced Toxic Encephalopathy

Viagra has been prescribed worldwide to treat men with erectile dysfunction. Clinical trials have shown that Viagra may cause various kinds of adverse effects include some central nervous system (CNS) adverse effects. Although extremely rare, toxic encephalopathy also can be one of those effects. This report presents a case of encephalopathy caused by Viagra in correlation with its radiologic findings. Its pharmacologic mechanism and potential effects on the biochemistry of the CNS are reviewed.

Overview of Suicide by Charcoal Burning and Prevention Strategies / 신경정신의학

Suicide by charcoal burning is common in Asian countries such as Hong Kong and Taiwan. Suicide by charcoal burning has recently shown a rapid increase in Korea, following a celebrity suicide, which was extensively reported by the media. Not only is suicide by charcoal burning fatal, but it also causes delayed neuropsychiatric symptoms through carbon monoxide poisoning. Risk factors associated with charcoal-burning suicide include middle age, male, divorced or unmarried, and economically active but with financial difficulties. To prevent suicide by charcoal burning, limited access to charcoal, responsible media reporting as recommended by international guidelines, and detoxification of charcoal by modifying the raw material should all be considered. In addition, suicide prevention programs should increasingly focus on suicide by charcoal burning. Relevant measures to prevent suicide by charcoal burning will be essential in order to lower the overall suicide rate in Korea.

Effect of clomipramine in a dog with cataplexy / 대한수의학회지

A 5-year-old, castrated male, Maltese was presented with history of acute flaccid paralysis. The dog was presented with sudden loss of muscle tone and involuntary movements of hind limbs. Neurologic examination revealed reduced postural reaction in the bilateral hind limbs. MRI of brain showed moderate hydrocephalus, but other examination results were normal. Based on the characteristic episodes and examination results, canine cataplexy was suspected. Treatment was initiated with clomipramine as cataplexy control. Clinical signs resolved with 3-month medication. This case demonstrates therapeutic diagnosis of cataplexy. To the author's knowledge, this is the first report of cataplexy treating with clomipramine.