[Hemodynamic aspect of adiastole in oxprenolol poisoning]

Self-poisoning with beta-blockers is uncommon but often life-threatening. A 59 year old man was admitted to the ICU after having ingested an estimated dose of 2 g of oxprenolol. Circulatory collapse occurred without pre-existing cardiac failure. Right ventricular haemodynamic data showed adiastole which responded to massive doses of isoprenaline and dopamine. Subsequently the patient recovered normal haemodynamic parameters. This report suggests that right ventricular dysfunction may complicate beta-blocker overdose.