FLUBENDIAMIDE POISONING: A CASE REPORT

Introduction: Deliberate self-harm (DSH) by ingesting pesticides is a prevalent issue, particularly in rural areas of developing countries.Flubendiamide, a diamide insecticide,is considered less toxic than other pesticides but can still cause significant clinical symptoms when ingested in large quantities. This report examines a case of deliberate Flubendiamide ingestion and the subsequent medical management. Case Presentation: A 35-year-old woman presented with a history of deliberate ingestion of Flubendiamide 39.35%, approximately 5-10 ml,following a stressful domestic event. She initially experienced symptoms of loose stools, vomiting, and epigastric pain. After receiving gastric lavage and conservative treatment at a local hospital, she was transferred to our facility for further observation. On admission, she was conscious and had stable vital signs. General and systemic examinations were unremarkable, except for an ulcer in the hard palate.Baseline laboratory investigations were normal except for iron deficiency anemia. She was managed with supportive care, and her symptoms resolved during her hospital stay. Discussion: Flubendiamide targets insect ryanodine receptors but may also affect human calcium channels.Although it is marketed as having low mammalian toxicity, the presence of mucosal ulceration and gastrointestinal symptoms in this case suggests localized toxicity, possibly linked to the phthalic acid component in the insecticide. The patient's timely intervention and stable condition reflect the importance of early medical care in pesticide poisoning cases. Conclusion: Despite its low toxicity, Flubendiamide can cause significant symptoms in humans, particularly mucosal damage.Early decontamination and supportive care are critical in managing such cases.