Signs progress to hyperactivity, polyuria, ataxia, tremors, and seizures. 3 Other effects include tachycardia, premature ventricular contractions, tachypnea, cyanosis, hypertension, hyperthermia, and coma. 3,5 Less commonly, bradycardia and hypotension may occur. 3 Hypokalemia is possible late in the course of the toxicosis. Because of the high fat content of many chocolate products, pancreatitis is a potential sequela 24 to 72 hours after ingestion.
Death is generally due to cardiac arrhythmias or respiratory failure.
To treat chocolate ingestion, stabilize the patient, perform gastrointestinal decontamination, and provide supportive care. Control Seizures with diazepam or a barbiturate as needed. 5 Monitor cardiac status via electrocardiography, and treat arrhythmias when necessary. 6 is the b -blocker of choice, if available. 5 Hyperthermia secondary to excessive muscle activity generally resolves once the central nervous system signs are controlled, although ancillary cooling may be required.