Inhaled sevoflurane use for myoclonic status secondary to bupropion intoxication

Abstract

A 26-year-old female with a history of depression was admitted after ingesting 7.5g of bupropion. Her clinical status rapidly deteriorated into a coma and myoclonic status, which was complicated by lung aspiration. Initial treatment with high-dose midazolam and later propofol failed to control her myoclonus. Sevoflurane inhalation therapy (6.5 mg/hour) was initiated, and complete resolution of myoclonus was achieved within hours. Propofol was discontinued, and the sevoflurane dose was gradually tapered over 24 hours without myoclonus recurrence. The patient awoke agitated but neurologically intact, was extubated, and fully recovered by Day 10. This case highlights the efficacy of sevoflurane in managing refractory myoclonic status due to bupropion toxicity, especially when electroencephalogram monitoring is unavailable. Sevoflurane rapid titration and elimination allow precise sedation control and safe neurological assessment. Inhaled anesthetics may also be beneficial in other ICU scenarios, including status epilepticus, severe asthma, and hemodynamic instability. This successful outcome demonstrates the potential of sevoflurane as an alternative therapy in critical toxicological emergencies.

Figure 1. Computed tomographic images of the patient: (A) brain scan and (B) lung scan.