How dangerous is mouse poison to humans? - briefly
Mouse bait that contains anticoagulant rodenticides can cause life‑threatening internal bleeding if swallowed, with lethal doses as low as a few milligrams. Immediate medical treatment with vitamin K antidotes can prevent fatal outcomes.
How dangerous is mouse poison to humans? - in detail
Rodent bait containing anticoagulants (warfarin‑type compounds, bromadiolone, brodifacoum) interferes with vitamin K recycling, leading to uncontrolled bleeding. Toxic dose for adults ranges from 0.1 mg/kg for potent second‑generation agents to 5 mg/kg for first‑generation compounds. Ingestion of a single pellet can deliver a lethal dose to a child; an adult would require several pellets, but sub‑lethal exposure still produces bruising, nosebleeds, hematuria, and prolonged clotting times.
Bromethalin, a neurotoxin, blocks mitochondrial ATP production. Acute toxicity appears at 0.5 mg/kg, causing muscle weakness, tremors, seizures, and coma. Recovery depends on prompt decontamination; there is no specific antidote.
Cholecalciferol (vitamin D₃) overdose raises serum calcium, resulting in renal failure, cardiac arrhythmia, and vascular calcification. Toxic dose is approximately 0.5 mg/kg. Early symptoms include nausea, vomiting, and polyuria; laboratory confirmation of hypercalcemia guides treatment with fluid therapy and bisphosphonates.
Zinc phosphide releases phosphine gas when it reacts with stomach acid. Even small amounts (0.1 g) can be fatal, producing pulmonary edema, cardiovascular collapse, and metabolic acidosis. No antidote exists; supportive care focuses on oxygenation and hemodynamic stabilization.
Exposure routes:
- Ingestion: most common, especially in children and pets attracted to flavored bait.
- Dermal contact: limited absorption, but can cause irritation; risk increases with prolonged exposure to powdered formulations.
- Inhalation: relevant for phosphine gas release during handling or accidental mixing with acidic substances.
Clinical management:
- Stabilize airway, breathing, circulation.
- Administer activated charcoal within one hour of oral intake.
- For anticoagulant poisoning, give vitamin K₁ (10 mg orally or intravenously) for 3–7 days, adjusting dose based on INR.
- For bromethalin, provide supportive neuro‑care; monitor for seizures.
- For cholecalciferol, initiate aggressive hydration, diuretics, and calcitonin or bisphosphonates to lower calcium.
- For phosphine, ensure high‑flow oxygen, consider mechanical ventilation, correct acidosis with bicarbonate.
Prevention measures:
- Store bait in child‑proof containers, out of reach of pets.
- Use tamper‑resistant stations that limit access to the toxic matrix.
- Educate household members about symptoms of poisoning.
- Choose low‑risk formulations (e.g., first‑generation anticoagulants) when appropriate.
Overall, rodent control products pose a significant health hazard when mishandled or inadvertently consumed. Toxicity varies by active ingredient, dose, and individual susceptibility; timely medical intervention can reduce morbidity and mortality.