Convulsions, insecticide-induced

Cole LM, Casida JE. 1986. Polychlorocycloalkane insecticide-induced convulsions in mice in relation to disruption of the GABA-regulated chloride ionophore. Life Sci 39 1855-1862. 

In spite of the smaller ratio of nicotinic to muscarinic receptors in the brain, nicotine and lobeline (Figure 7-3) have important effects on the brainstem and cortex. The mild alerting action of nicotine absorbed from inhaled tobacco smoke is the best-known of these effects. In larger concentrations, nicotine induces tremor, emesis, and stimulation of the respiratory center. At still higher levels, nicotine causes convulsions, which may terminate in fatal coma. The lethal effects on the central nervous system and the fact that nicotine is readily absorbed form the basis for the use of nicotine as an insecticide. Dimethylphenylpiperazinium (DMPP), a synthetic nicotinic stimulant used in research is relatively free of these central effects because it does not cross the blood-brain barrier. 

Diazepam, an anticonvulsant of the benzodiazepine family, has been shown to control soman-induced convulsions in monkeys96 and convulsions induced by other ChE inhibitors in the rabbit.97,98 There have also been anecdotal reports of its effectiveness in controlling convulsions induced by organophosphate insecticides. In rats, diazepam has been reported to decrease the frequency of convulsions and brain lesions (although, when given without atropine, it did not decrease mortality).99 When given with 2-PAM Cl, with or without atropine, diazepam reduced the severity, but not the incidence, of brain lesions in soman-poisoned rats.100... 

A novel mode of action was first suggested by the characteristic symptoms induced by flubendiamide, such as gradual contractions of insect body, thickening and shortening without convulsions (Fig. 31.2). Though the symptoms were obviously different from those of existing insecticides, similar symptoms were also seen in insects treated with the plant alkaloid ryanodine, a modulator of a... 

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