Cardiac Abnormalities in Poisoning with Tricyclic Antidepressants. Issue 5657 (7th June 1969)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Freeman, J. W.; Mundy, G. R.; Beattie, R. R.; Ryan, C.
• Is Part Of: BMJ. Volume 2:Issue 5657(1969)
• Page Start: 610
• Page End: 611
• Publication Date: 1969-06-07
• Subjects: Medicine -- Periodicals; Medicine -- Periodicals; Medicine; Periodicals; 610
• DOI: 10.1136/bmj.2.5657.610
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0007-1447

Abstract

Abstract : Of 80 consecutive admissions to a general hospital for drug overdose, 10 had taken one or other of the tricyclic antidepressants. All 10 had abnormalities of cardiac conduction as shown by prolonged Q–Te intervals, and eight had S–T segment and T-wave changes. Five of the 10 patients had arrhythmias and two of these died. Continuous electrocardiographic monitoring is recommended in patients with overdosage of tricyclic antidepressants.