VPT 421: Veterinary Toxicology (2+0)

DATURA STROMONIUM
(Thorn apple, Jimson weed)

Cats, dogs and birds are more toxic. The alkaloid of this plant is related to atropine. The toxin is present in the entire plant, but is most concentrated in the seeds. In cattle it causes dilatation of the pupil, staggering gait and other parasympatholytictic effects. In sheep and goat there are impaired movement, dyspnoea, tremor, recumbency, hyperaesthesia, and rapid respiration and reduced water intake. Seeds of this plant are not toxic. Rabbits have an enzyme esterase and hence are not poisoned. Diagnosis of poisoning in animals can be done by looking for pupillary dilatation in a normal animal after instilling a few drops of urine from a suspected animal. Treatment includes use of stomachics, emetics and stimulants and administration of pilocarpine or physostigmine.