A fatal case of venlafaxine overdose.

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Based on its primary action of serotonin reuptake inhibition, venlafaxine overdose would be expected to result in serotonergic effects. CASE REPORT: 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. DISCUSSION: 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.