A fatal case of venlafaxine overdose.
BACKGROUND
Based on its primary action of serotonin reuptake inhibition, venlafaxine overdose would be expected to result in serotonergic effects.


METHODS
A 40 year old male ingested venlafaxine without co-ingestants in a suicide attempt. The patient developed refractory ventricular fibrillation and expired approximately 9 hours post-ingestion. ECG monitoring revealed significant QRS and QTC interval prolongation prior to his demise.


CONCLUSIONS
A literature review of venlafaxine overdose cases and investigation into its mechanism of action was conducted. The potential for sodium channel blockade and implications for therapy are discussed.
Bosse
George M
GM
Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY 40202, USA.
Spiller
Henry A
HA
Collins
Aaron M
AM
D000328:Adult; D018687:Antidepressive Agents, Second-Generation / Q000506:poisoning*; D003511:Cyclohexanols / Q000493:pharmacokinetics / Q000506:poisoning*; D062787:Drug Overdose; D017809:Fatal Outcome; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D000069470:Venlafaxine Hydrochloride
D018687:Antidepressive Agents, Second-Generation; D003511:Cyclohexanols; D000069470:Venlafaxine Hydrochloride