RT Journal
A1 Rubno MJ, Davidoff F
T1 CYanide poisoning from apricot seeds
JF JAMA
JO JAMA
YR 1979
FD January 26
VO 241
IS 4
SP 359
OP 359
DO 10.1001/jama.1979.03290300013008
UL http://dx.doi.org/10.1001/jama.1979.03290300013008
AB To the Editor.— 
    Laetrile (amygdalin), found in the kernels of apricot seeds and other fruits, has recently been legalized in several states for the treatment of cancer. Amygdalin is a cyanogenic glycoside that on hydrolysis yields hydrogen cyanide. Although supporters of laetrile as a cancer remedy maintain it has no toxicity, several reports document its toxic effects (238:482, 1977; 238:1361, 1977; 239:1532,1978). We report yet another case of cyanide poisoning from the ingestion of apricot seeds.Report of a Case.— 
    On June 8, 1978, a 49-year-old woman with nodular lymphoma diagnosed six years earlier ate 20 to 40 apricot pits, which she had purchased in a local health food store. The patient denied using the pits as a cancer treatment or preventive; rather, they were a substitute for her regular lunch. Within half an hour the patient noted headache, weakness, disorientation, and nausea. She vomited once or twice, regurgitating substantial