Table 2
Author, date and countryPatient groupStudy type (level of evidence)OutcomesKey resultsStudy weaknesses
Ruddy JM et al, 1972, Australia4 year old ingested about 1000 mg imipramine, episode of PEA 1.5 hours durationCase reportCardiac statusImproved with 1 mg boluses glucagonCase report
Patient also received pyridostigmine, sodium bicarbonate, isoprenaline, digoxin, lignocaine and mannitol
Sener EK et al, 1995, UK25 year old woman. Plasma toxicology - imipramine 3.0 mg/l, desipramine 0.18 mg/l, diazepam 2.9 mg/l, nordiazepam 2.2 mg/l, chlorpromazine 0.3 mg/l, temazepam 0.25 mg/lCase reportBlood pressureNo response to 1 mg bolus glucagon. 40 mm Hg systolic rise after glucagonsMultiple drugs ingested in overdose
Patient also received sodium bicarbonate, phenytoin and isoprenaline and fluid resuscitation
Cardiac rhythmNo response to 1 mg bolus glucagon. Broad complex reverted to sinus after 10 mg bolus
Sensky PR and Olczak SA, 1999, UK36 year old OD-admission toxicology dothiepin 2.58 mg/l, desmethyldothiepin 0.51 mg/l, paracetamol 135 mg/l, diazepam 0.33 mg/l, nordiazepam 0.12 mg/lCase reportBlood pressureNo response to 1 mg bolus glucagon. 30 mm Hg systolic rise after glucagonsCase report
Multiple drugs ingested in overdose
Cardiac rhythmNo response to 1 mg bolus glucagon. Broad complex reverted to sinus after 10 mg bolusPatient also received n-acetylcysteine, adrenaline, noradrenaline, ephedrine, dobutamine, and aminophylline with fluid restriction