Management of Copper Sulphate Poisoning

In this article, we will discuss the Management of Copper Sulphate Poisoning. So, let’s get started.

Management

1. General measures

• To remove the poison from the stomach by gastric lavage or nasogastric tube aspiration
• Stomach wash with 1% potassium ferrocyanide to form cupric ferrocyanide which is nonabsorbable and can be removed
• Administer egg white or milk to form albuminate of copper which is insoluble and can be removed
• Catharsis by giving castor oil to promote excretion of unabsorbed copper sulphate through the intestine
• I.V. fluids to maintain proper hydration. Blood transfusions may be needed for anemia
• Symptomatic relief of gastric symptoms by antacids and H2- antagonists.

2. Chelating agents: Calcium EDTA, BAL and D-penicillamine are commonly employed chelating agents given in 5 days courses seperated by 2-3 days of rest.

3. Management of complications

• Forced alkaline diuresis (50-100 mEq of NaHCO3 in 100 ml of half saline) is indicated in case of intravascular hemolysis
• Circulatory support by adequate fluid replacement to prevent renal failure
• Peritoneal/hemodialysis if acute renal failure develops. The evidences also suggest that removal of copper by dialysis is also indicated in the early stages of poisoning when free copper is present in the circulation
• To prevent hemodialysis, vitamin C, E and riboflavin can be given