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Severe hypoglycaemia in citalopram overdose
Russell A Duncan1, Peter A R Armstrong, Brodie Paterson
1Accident and Emergency, Ninewells Hospital, Dundee, UK. russellduncan@nhs.net
Summary
Two poisoning cases revealed profound hypoglycemia as a key symptom of citalopram overdose. This previously undocumented side effect is a critical, treatable cause of seizures in selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor toxicity.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Pharmacology
- Emergency Medicine
Background:
- Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are commonly prescribed antidepressants.
- Citalopram is an SSRI known for its potential toxicity in overdose scenarios.
Observation:
- Two patients presented with severe hypoglycemia following citalopram overdose.
- Hypoglycemia was the predominant clinical feature in both cases.
Findings:
- Profound hypoglycemia is a significant, previously undocumented manifestation of citalopram toxicity.
- This finding expands the known toxicological profile of citalopram.
Implications:
- Clinicians should consider hypoglycemia in patients with citalopram overdose, especially those with altered mental status or seizures.
- Prompt recognition and management of hypoglycemia can prevent severe neurological complications.
- Poisoning information resources should be updated to include hypoglycemia as a key feature of citalopram overdose.
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