Abstract
To the Editor.— Cupric sulfate as an emetic in the management of drug poisoning 1 has generally been replaced by safer agents, ie, ipecac syrup and apomorphine hydrochloride. Despite recognized toxicity of cupric sulfate, 2 it has been used as an emetic because it produces gastric irritation and vomiting, thus preventing absorption. This report of fatal sequelae of the use of cupric sulfate as an emetic illustrates the danger of this practice. Report of a Case.— A 44-year-old woman was brought to the emergency room following ingestion of alcohol and diazepam. Vital signs and results of a physical examination were unremarkable. Cupric sulfate, 10 ml of a 10% solution, was administered twice. When the patient failed to vomit, her stomach was lavaged with 2 liters of saline; green material was obtained. Approximately one hour later, the patient was lethargic, blood pressure was 88/64 mm Hg; pulse rate, 90 beats per
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