Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor toxicity

Background

• Most serious adverse effect is potential to produce Serotonin Syndrome
• Fatalities are uncommon with pure overdoses

Clinical Features

• N/V
• Sedation
• Tremor
• Sinus Tachycardia
• QRS, QT prolongation (citalopram only)
• Serotonin Syndrome

Treatment

• GI decontamination
  • Activated charcoal x1
  • Gastric lavage unnecessary

Disposition

• Consider admission for patients who are tachycardic or lethargic 6hr after ingesion

See Also

• SNRI Toxicity

Source

Tintinalli