Antidepressant overdose
About Antidepressant overdose
Most antidepressants are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Common trade names for these medications include Prozac, Lexapro, Cymbalta, Zoloft, and Paxil. They can cause significant symptoms (serotonin syndrome) when taken as an overdose but are rarely lethal. Another class of antidepressants called tricyclic antidepressants can cause very serious and life threatening overdoses. The common tricyclic antidepressants include amitriptyline, amoxapine, desipramine, doxepin, imipramine, and nortriptyline.Symptoms
Dizziness, sweating, nausea, vomiting, tremor, somnolence, sinus, tachycardia, fever, and altered mental status.Tests & Diagnostics
A history and physical exam will be performed. Blood tests and electrocardiograms to detect abnormal electrolytes and EKG changes. Other lab and radiology tests may be done to rule out other causes of the symptoms.Common tests: BHCG, Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), CT Scan, EKG, Troponin, X-ray.
Conventional treatment summary
Therapy is primarily supportive, including maintaining adequate blood pressure and brisk urine output with intravenous fluids. Heart rate and rhythm is constantly monitored until the person's condition has stabilized. A benzodiazepine, such as lorazepam (Ativan), may be used for SSSRI overdose. For more information and help call your local poison center at 1-800-222-1222.Medical specialties
Medical Toxicology
This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Antidepressant overdose.