QT interval prolongation after sertraline overdose: a case report

• Main Authors: Holman Nicole D, van Dijk Tonnis H, de Boer Rudolf A, van Melle Joost P
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: BMC 2005-07-01
• Series: BMC Emergency Medicine
• Online Access: http://www.biomedcentral.com/1471-227X/5/5

<p>Abstract</p> <p>Background</p> <p>Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are the most common antidepressants used in first-world countries and are generally well tolerated. Specifically, less cardiovascular toxicity has been reported in comparison with tricyclic antidepressants. Here we report QT interval prolongation after an overdose of the SSRI sertraline.</p> <p>Case presentation</p> <p>A previously healthy female patient presented with an attempted suicide with overdoses sertraline (2250 mg), diazepam (200 mg), and temazepam (400 mg). Routine laboratory studies were normal and her ECG upon admission showed a normal QT interval. The next day, her ECG showed prolongation of the QT_cinterval up to 525 ms. After discontinuation of sertraline the QT interval normalized. Echocardiography and exercise electrocardiography were normal. After hospitalization, the patient resumed sertraline in the normally recommended dose and QT interval remained within normal ranges.</p> <p>Conclusion</p> <p>It seems that the SSRI sertraline in overdose may cause QT interval prolongation.</p>