The Drug-Induced Respiratory Disease Website
Known since the 1940s (PMID 18883450). Comprehensive list of causal drugs and chemicals available at PMID 1564446. Methemoglobin is the oxidized (Fe3+) species of hemoglobin (Fe2+). Patients present with slate-grey cyanosis, low SpO2, normal SaO2 and PaO2. Normally, methemoglobin is <1%. Levels above 40% can be life-threatening, producing pulmonary edema, cardiovascular collapse (PMID 17122537) CNS disturbances and death. Management includes i.v. methylene blue. A possible rebound increase in MeHb upon treatment requires close monitoring. Excess methylene blue can also produce methemoglobinemia. Guidelines: PMID 34467556.
Publications
Severe methemoglobinemia and hemolytic anemia from aniline purchased as 2C-E (4-ethyl-2,5-dimethoxyphenethylamine), a recreational drug, on the Internet - Oregon, 2011.
MMWR. Morbidity and mortality weekly report 2012 Feb 10;61;85-8 — 2012 Feb 10 — 85-8
Toxicology laboratory analysis and human exposure to p-chloroaniline.
Clinical toxicology (Philadelphia, Pa.) 2009 Feb;47;132-6 — 2009 Feb — 132-6