Quetiapine

Quetiapine is a second-generation atypical antipsychotic agent. Deliberate self-poisoning is associated with sedation, delirium, coma, tachycardia and hypotension. It is currently a leading cause of toxic coma requiring intensive care admission. Thorough supportive care ensures a good outcome.

References

  • Balit CR, Isbister GK, Hackett LP. Quetiapine: A case series. Annals of Emergency Medicine 2003; 42: 751-758.
  • Burns MJ. The pharmacology and toxicology of atypical antipsychotic agents. Journal of Toxicology-Clinical Toxicology 2001; 39(1): 1-14.
  • Hawkins DJ, Unwin P.  Paradoxical and severe hypotension in response to adrenaline infusion in massive quetiapine overdose.  Critical Care and Resuscitation 2008; 10(4):320-322.
  • Isbister GK, Balit CR, Kilham HA. Antipsychotic poisoning in young children: A systematic review. Drug Safety 2005; 26(11):1029-1044.
  • Ngo A, Ciranni M, Olson KR.  Acute quetiapine overdose in adults: A 5-year retrospective case series  Annals of Emergency Medicine 2008; 52:541-547.
  • Tan HH, Hoppe J, Heard K.  A systematic review of cardiovascular effects after atypical antipsychotic medication overdose.  American Journal of Emergency Medicine 2009; 27:607-616.

Toxicology Handbook

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About Mike Cadogan

Emergency physician with a passion for medical informatics and medical education. Co-founder of HealthEngine, iMeducate, and the GMEP. He writes more eclectically on the web as @sandnsurf | + Mike Cadogan | Contact