Levamisole

Hi,
I have a question about levamisole which I might have been exposed to from a cocaine incident on June 18, 2010. Recent reports have been saying that the drug levamisole has been used to cut cocaine. I snorted cocaine for the first time (stupid, I know) on June 18. It was a little, way less than a gram, about as big as a pinky nail.

But I'm worried about whether it had levamisole in it and the effects, especially on agranulocytosis. So I'm wondering if a one-time exposure can result in agranulocytosis or if I'll need repeated exposures to really get agranulocytosis.

It's been five days since the exposure and I'm also wondering if I could take any tests to see if my blood count is down. Like would a complete blood count test be able to tell right away, or would I have to wait a little while longer? How long does it take for the side effect to kick in? I know levamisole stays in your body for 2 days, so it'd be impossible to test for that now. Just yesterday I've developed a stomach virus, but it seems to be better today, so I'm not too worried about that (probably just something I ate, or my body flushing out the drug).

Thank you.

[Sandra Y, RPh]

It is uncommon to develop agranulocytosis after one use, it is also less likely to develop in males. You can get a blood test if you're concerned about your exposure. Logically, I strongly suggest you do not take anymore cocaine.