Tricyclic antidepressant overdose necessitating ICU admission

Date
2012-05
Authors
Koegelenberg, Coenraad F. N.
Joubert, Zirkia J.
Irusen, Elvis M.
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Health and Medical Publishing Group (HMPG)
Abstract
Tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) overdose necessitating intensive care unit (ICU) admission remains a significant problem in the Western Cape. In this retrospective study, we reviewed the course of life-threatening TCA overdose in our centre to identify potential prognostic indicators. TCA levels >1 000 ng/ml were associated with QT and QRS prolongation and convulsions. However, no single parameter predicted non-survival. The overall mortality of TCA overdose was very low. Our findings should encourage clinicians to offer medical care including ICU admission, if necessary, to patients with TCA overdose.
Description
The original publication is available at http://www.samj.org.za
Keywords
Antidepressants -- South Africa -- Western Cape, Drugs -- Overdose -- South Africa -- Western Cape
Citation
Koegelenberg, C. F. N., Joubert, Z. J. & Irusen, E. M. 2012. Tricyclic antidepressant overdose necessitating ICU admission.South African Medical Journal, 102(5):293-294.