Author/Authors :
Rodriguez-Guerra, Miguel BronxCare Health System, New York, USA , Yadav, Mayank BronxCare Health System, New York, USA , Bhandari, Manoj BronxCare Health System, New York, USA , Sinha, Archna St. Charles Hospital, Port Jefferson, New York, USA , Bella, Jonathan N. BronxCare Health System, New York, USA , Sklyar, Eduard BronxCare Health System, New York, USA
Abstract :
Importance. Sibutramine was withdrawn from the US market due to association with adverse cardiovascular outcomes especially
with patients having preexisting cardiac disease. However, continued presence of sibutramine in herbal medications is a concern
to public safety. Results. We report a case of a patient with no evidence of previous coronary heart disease, who presented with
non-ST elevation acute coronary syndrome (NSTE-ACS). Urgent coronary catheterization showed nonobstructive coronaries.
However, patient died unexpectedly within 24 hours of admission. The patient denied toxic habits but was taking over-thecounter weight loss herbal supplements. Complete autopsy was performed which showed sibutramine in the toxicology. Patient
died due to complications of acute inadvertent intoxication of sibutramine. Conclusion and Relevance. This is the first case
report in literature showing association of sibutramine to sudden cardiac death in patients with no prior cardiac history. The
continued presence of sibutramine in some over-the-counter weight loss formulations is a very concerning public health issue.
