Role of atropine in management of cardiovascular manifestations of scorpion envenoming in humans.

We undertook a retrospective analysis of 35 victims of red scorpion (Mesobuthus tamulus) sting, admitted to our hospital in Mahad, Maharashtra State, India. Increase in duration as well as severity of clinical signs, including myocardial injury and poor response to conventional treatment, were observed in 17 victims treated with atropine compared to another 18 victims who were not so treated. We do not advocate routine use of atropine to block transient cholinergic effects of scorpion envenoming.