Mad honey poisoning from the past to the present

Abstract

Grayanotoxin which has toxic effects on Na channels is a natural product derived from the plants belongs to Ericaceae family. Although the “grayonotoxin (mad honey)” poisoning is not known commonly, there are some clinical and experimental studies, case series and case reports in the medical literature about it. Grayanotoxin poisoning can cause symptoms and findings such as bradycardia, hypotension and syncope. In addition, mortal cardiac rhythms such as complete atrioventricular block and asystole have also been reported. Appropriate fluid replacement and atropine should generally be sufficient for the treatment. In the present review, the historical progress, clinical presentation and treatment modalities of grayanotoxin poisoning were analyzed in the light of the literature.