Levamisole toxicity

Background

• an antihelminthic and immunomodulator belonging to a class of synthetic imidazothiazole derivatives that has been withdrawn from the U.S. and Canadian markets, due to the risk of serious side effects
• Increasingly used as a cutting agent in cocaine sold around the globe
• Results in Levamisole induced necrosis syndrome

Clinical Features

• agranulocytosis
  • neutropenia
• levamisole induced necrosis syndrome
  • Necrotic patches anywhere on skin (especially ears and legs)

Workup

• CBC

Management

• Neutropenia
  • Consider neupogen
  • Observation for neutropenic fever
• Necrosis
  • Aggressive supportive care
  • Burn care if significant necrosis

Disposition

Admission

See Also

• Cocaine