Citation

Joshi AK, Sljapic T, Borghei H, Kowey PR. J. Cardiovasc. Electrophysiol. 2004; 15(5): 591-593.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2004, John Wiley and Sons)

DOI

10.1046/j.1540-8167.2004.03173.x

PMID

15149431

Abstract

This is the first reported case of torsades de pointes attributable to diphenhydramine, a drug with weak I(Kr) effects. A 26-year-old, healthy man was admitted to intensive care after a diphenhydramine overdose.

RESULTS of physical examination, ECG, and electrolytes were normal at admission. Despite supportive care, he developed typical, sustained, torsades de pointes with a markedly prolonged QT interval requiring cardioversion. Drugs with weak I(Kr)-blocking effects may cause lethal proarrhythmia in susceptible individuals when delivered in high concentrations. This case illustrates the variation in repolarization reserve that exists in a free-standing population.

Language: en

Keywords

Adult; Anti-Allergic Agents; Diphenhydramine; Drug Overdose; Electric Countershock; Electrocardiography; Humans; Recovery of Function; Suicide, Attempted; Torsades de Pointes