Guanmutong is a traditional Chinese medicinal herb that clears heat and eliminates toxins. However, it should not be used by patients with kidney disease, pregnant women, or newborns. It is also not recommended for children and the elderly.
【Symptoms of Guanmutong Poisoning】
Guanmutong contains aristolochic acid, which is a toxic component. Excessive use of Guanmutong can lead to acute renal failure and even death.
Poisoning symptoms include discomfort in the upper abdomen, followed by vomiting, headache, chest tightness, abdominal distension and pain, diarrhea, facial swelling, frequent urination, urgency to urinate, gradual onset of generalized edema, and confusion.
Poisoning can occur due to excessive or prolonged use. Therefore, it is necessary to strictly follow the prescribed dosage and usage.
Treatment for poisoning includes gastric lavage and intestinal lavage. According to reports, early administration of adrenal cortical hormones can delay the progression of the disease. Timely hemodialysis can achieve favorable treatment outcomes.
For patients with significant impairment of renal function and end-stage renal disease, alternative treatments such as kidney transplantation may be necessary.
【Pharmacological Effects of Guanmutong】
1. Guanmutong contains aristolochic acid A, which has a significant hypertensive effect.
2. Aristolochic acid A can inhibit the growth of cancer cells, thus having an anti-tumor effect.
3. Guanmutong has a diuretic effect.
4. Aristolochic acid A has excitatory effects on isolated rabbit intestines, in situ rabbit intestines, and in situ cat uteri.
5. Aristolochic acid A enhances the phagocytic function of phagocytes and improves cellular immune function.
