This abnormal ECG would be typical following an overdose on which of the following medications?
- Amitriptyline
- Buspirone
- Citalopram
- Haloperidol
This post was expert peer-reviewed by Dr. Michele Burns, Dr. Bryan Judge, & Dr. Louise Kao.
References
- Liebelt E. Cyclic Antidepressants. In: Goldfrank’s Toxicologic Emergencies. 10e Eds. Robert S. Hoffman et al. New York, NY. McGraw-Hill. 2015.
- Kerr GW, McGuffie AC, Wilkie S. Tricyclic antidepressant overdose: a review. Emerg Med J 2001;18(4): 236-241.
- Liebelt E et al. ECG lead AVR versus QRS interval in predicting seizures and arrhythmias in acute tricyclic antidepressant toxicity. Ann Emerg Med. Aug 1995; 26(2):195–201.
- Boehnert M. Value of the QRS Duration versus the serum drug level in predicting seizures and ventricular arrhythmias after an acute overdose of tricyclic antidepressants. NEJM. Aug 22 1985; 13(8):474-479.
- Citak A et al. Seizures associated with poisoning in children: Tricyclic antidepressant intoxication. Pediatr Int. 2006; 48(6): 582–85.
- Bruccoleri RE & Burns M. A Literature review of the use of sodium bicarbonate for the treatment of QRS widening. J Med Toxicol 2016; 12(1):121–29.
- Seger DL, Hantsch C, Zavoral T, Wrenn K. Variability of recommendations for serum alkalinization in tricyclic antidepressant overdose: a survey of U.S. Poison Center medical directors. J Toxicol Clin Toxicol 2003; 41(4):331–338.