Citation

Cassens S, Nickel EA, Quintel M, Neumann P. Anaesthesist 2006; 55(11): 1189-1196.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2006, Holtzbrinck Springer Nature Publishing Group)

DOI

10.1007/s00101-006-1089-1

PMID

16953421

Abstract

The serotonin syndrome is caused by a drug-induced increase of the intrasynaptic serotonin concentration. Milder forms of the syndrome may be difficult to diagnose because of the variability of symptoms. Severe forms often rapidly turn into a life-threatening situation, therefore the serotonin syndrome may be a challenge for physicians. We describe the pathophysiology and therapeutic options of the serotonin syndrome and report about a 42-year-old female patient who ingested large amounts of moclobemide, a monoamine oxidase inhibitor, and citalopram, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor, for attempted suicide. Within a few hours the patient developed a lethal serotonin syndrome although ICU therapy was initiated immediately.

Language: de

Keywords

Adult; Citalopram; Electrocardiography; Emergency Medical Services; Fatal Outcome; Female; Humans; Moclobemide; Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors; Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors; Serotonin Syndrome; Suicide