Overview

• A Manises teen ingested a large dose of carbamazepine for a social media challenge, fell comatose and was intubated after developing aspiration pneumonia in the ICU.
• Initial basic toxicology screens were negative but a more exhaustive analysis confirmed elevated drug levels that guided targeted treatment.
• Following intravenous antibiotic therapy the patient fully recovered and has not engaged in further risky behaviors, doctors report.
• Drs. Victoria Ordoño and María Sinisterra presented the case at the June AEP Congress to highlight peer pressure’s role in escalating dangerous online dares among younger children.
• The Asociación Española de Pediatría is calling on schools, parents and social platforms to adopt preventive programs similar to existing road safety education.