Citation

Chan AW, Johnston KW, Verjee Z, Demajo WA. Can. J. Cardiol. 1996; 12(9): 835-838.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1996, Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

8842138

Abstract

Previous cases of diltiazem overdose described patients who presented with hypotension, heart block, bradycardia, or ultimately death. This report concerns an elderly patient presenting to the emergency room with hypotension, an ischemic leg and confusion. He underwent an emergency thrombectomy of the femoral artery. He had severe lactic acidosis, persistent hypotension requiring prolonged inotropic support and difficulty being weaned from the ventilator after the operation. Subsequent investigations confirmed that he attempted suicide by taking an unknown quantity of diltiazem. Because diltiazem has been increasingly prescribed to treat various cardiovascular disorders, overdose may become a more common problem. A high index of suspicion is required to ensure prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment when patients taking this medication present with sudden circulatory collapse. A guide to the management of diltiazem overdose is provided.

Language: en

Keywords

Bradycardia; Diltiazem; Drug Overdose; Electrocardiography; Femoral Artery; Humans; Hypotension; Male; Middle Aged; Suicide, Attempted; Thrombectomy; Thrombophlebitis; Time Factors