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A depressed myocardium
S J Partridge1, D H MacIver, T Solanki
1Taunton and Somerset NHS Trust, England, United Kingdom. samuel@langford134.freeserve.co.uk
Journal of Toxicology. Clinical Toxicology
|August 10, 2000
Summary
This case report highlights the significant cardiotoxicity of venlafaxine and paroxetine overdose. High doses of these antidepressants can lead to severe cardiac events, including myocardial damage.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Toxicology
- Cardiology
Background:
- Venlafaxine is a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) with some dopamine reuptake inhibition.
- Paroxetine is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI).
Observation:
- A 27-year-old male ingested a massive overdose of venlafaxine (1987.5 mg) and paroxetine (360 mg).
- The patient developed severe hypertension, transient ECG abnormalities, and myocardial damage.
Findings:
- Echocardiogram revealed marked hypokinesis in the basal anterior septum, indicating persistent myocardial damage.
- Despite recovery of blood pressure and ECG, the myocardial damage was notable.
Implications:
- This case suggests that combined overdose of venlafaxine and paroxetine poses a serious risk of cardiotoxicity.
- Clinicians should be aware of potential cardiac complications in patients with massive antidepressant overdoses.