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05:42
The Forced Swim Test as a Model of Depressive-like Behavior
Published on: March 2, 2015
Outcomes after supratherapeutic escitalopram ingestions
Frank LoVecchio1, David Watts, Joseph Winchell
1Banner Good Samaritan Regional Poison Center, Phoenix, Arizona 85006, USA.
The Journal of Emergency Medicine
|January 26, 2006
Summary
Accidental and intentional escitalopram (ESC) ingestions were reviewed. Most patients experienced no adverse effects, indicating low toxicity even in overdose.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Toxicology
- Clinical Medicine
Background:
- Escitalopram (ESC) is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) used for depression.
- Limited data exist on ESC exposure outcomes.
- Understanding ESC toxicity is crucial for patient management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate outcomes of accidental and intentional escitalopram ingestions.
- To assess the safety profile of ESC in overdose scenarios.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective chart review of isolated ESC ingestions.
- Data collected from a regional poison center (2003-2004).
- Inclusion criteria: isolated ESC ingestions.
Main Results:
- Twenty-eight patients met inclusion criteria (average age 28.1 years).
- Average ingestion: 62.5 mg ESC (range 5-300 mg).
- No adverse outcomes reported in accidental ingestions (n=8).
- One intentional overdose (n=20) required admission for lethargy, with good outcome.
- Most intentional overdoses were managed in the Emergency Department and discharged.
Conclusions:
- Escitalopram overdose appears to have a favorable safety profile.
- No serious adverse sequelae were observed in this series.
- Further research may be warranted for specific populations or higher doses.
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