Beta blocker overdose with propranolol and with atenolol

Ann Emerg Med. 1985 Feb;14(2):161-3. doi: 10.1016/s0196-0644(85)81081-7.

Abstract

During a one-month period, two cases of beta-adrenergic blocker overdose were treated by the emergency staff at our hospital. One case of propranolol intoxication demonstrated profound cardiovascular collapse and generalized tonic-clonic seizures. The condition failed to respond to high-dose intravenous pressor agents, but did improve significantly with IV glucagon infusion. The second overdose involved atenolol. Although the blood levels reported were very high, the patient showed no cardiovascular compromise and required only inhaled bronchodilators for an exacerbation of her asthma.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adrenergic beta-Antagonists / poisoning
  • Adult
  • Atenolol / poisoning*
  • Female
  • Glucagon / therapeutic use
  • Humans
  • Poisoning / drug therapy
  • Propranolol / poisoning*
  • Substance-Related Disorders / complications
  • Substance-Related Disorders / drug therapy

Substances

  • Adrenergic beta-Antagonists
  • Atenolol
  • Glucagon
  • Propranolol