An Iowa woman has been arrested for allegedly attempting to poison her husband by putting eye drops in his drink on two separate occasions in July 2023. Daisy Zantjer, 39, of Pleasantville, Iowa, is facing charges of administering a noxious substance and domestic abuse, according to a local report. NBC affiliate WHO-13.
The Pleasantville Police Department was alerted to the alleged poisoning by Zantjer’s husband, leading to an investigation by the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation and the local police department. This investigation culminated in Zantjer’s arrest on July 30, according to a local police report. Press release.
The victim, who is alive, was hospitalized for symptoms including breathing difficulties, KCCI reportedA hearing for Zantjer has been scheduled for Aug. 8. The eye drops allegedly used in the poisoning contained tetrahydrozoline, an active ingredient commonly found in products designed to relieve eye redness.
According WebMDTetrahydrozoline works by “temporarily narrowing the blood vessels in the eye.” The medication is intended for short-term use, usually no more than three or four days, and should be kept out of the reach of children and pets.
Ingesting tetrahydrozoline can cause serious health problems. The Poison Control Center says ingestion can cause symptoms such as drowsiness, low blood pressure, and a “dangerously slow heart rate.” Teens and adults who consume large amounts of the drug can experience life-threatening symptoms. This case highlights the potential dangers of misusing everyday medications, and underscores the importance of using them strictly as directed and keeping them safe from unauthorized use.
If you are experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 or visit lalineadirecta.orgAll calls are free and confidential. The hotline is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, in over 170 languages.