A Case of Fatal Poisoning: Use of 2-4 Dinitrophenol for Weight Loss

Abstract

Aim: 2,4-dinitrophenol (DNP®) causes rapid weight loss. Therefore, this drug is used for weight loss, is mostly sold on internet sites, and is banned for sale owing to its deadly side effects. In this case report, we aimed to report a patient who was admitted to our hospital with DNP poisoning. Case: In the present study, we present a 29-year-old patient who took 200-mg DNP® once a day for 5 days and who applied to our emergency department approximately 6 hours after taking two tablets on the last day. He developed cardiopulmonary arrest 8 hours after admission despite all supportive treatments and died despite effective and adequate cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Conclusion: DNP poisoning can be fatal even in small doses. It is difficult to control because the drug is freely available on the internet, and urgent diagnosis and treatment is critical. In recent times, where sedentary life and obesity are on the rise, people should be better informed about healthy living and the risks associated with weight loss drugs that can be obtained illegally. Preventing the unauthorized sale of these products, which have a limited response to treatment and a high mortality rate, over the internet and early recognition of poisoning by emergency room physicians is the most important preventive measure in DNP poisonings and the most important step in treatment.