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Beta-Blocker Poisoning

High-dose beta-blocker intake is a serious poisoning that may cause bradycardia, hypotension and cardiogenic shock.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Acil Servis department. Book Appointment →

What is Beta-Blocker Poisoning?

Beta-blocker intoxication carries the risk of cardiovascular collapse due to excessive beta-adrenergic receptor blockade with negative inotropic, chronotropic and dromotropic effects.

Lipophilic agents such as propranolol cross into the central nervous system and can cause seizures, delirium and coma. Sotalol carries the risk of QT prolongation and torsades de pointes.

Standard resuscitation principles are applied in treatment; glucagon (increases intracellular cAMP in cardiac cells), high-dose insulin euglycemia (HIE) and intravenous lipid emulsion in refractory shock are used.

Symptoms

Bradycardia and hypotension
Heart block
Cardiogenic shock
Hypoglycemia
Bronchospasm
Confusion, seizures, coma
Pulmonary edema

Risk Factors

Suicidal mass ingestion
Wrong dose in patients with heart disease
Child abuse or accident
Liver and kidney failure
Combined calcium channel blocker use
Long half-life beta-blocker (sotalol, atenolol)
Elderly patients

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Go to the emergency department immediately when a beta-blocker overdose is taken
  • Call emergency services for bradycardia and hypotension
  • Even one tablet may pose a serious risk in a child
  • Refer immediately for arrhythmia and syncope

Treatment Methods

01
Securing airway, breathing and circulation
02
Fluid resuscitation
03
Atropine and pacemaker (for bradycardia)
04
Glucagon loading and infusion
05
High-dose insulin euglycemia (HIE) protocol
06
IV lipid emulsion (Intralipid) in resistant shock
07
Consideration of VA-ECMO
08
Intensive care monitoring

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Acil Servis department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.