Case of polymorphic ventricular tachycardia in diphenhydramine poisoning.

Abstract

This is the first reported case of torsades de pointes attributable to diphenhydramine, a drug with weak I(Kr) effects. A 26-year-old, healthy man was admitted to intensive care after a diphenhydramine overdose. Results of physical examination, ECG, and electrolytes were normal at admission. Despite supportive care, he developed typical, sustained, torsades de pointes with a markedly prolonged QT interval requiring cardioversion. Drugs with weak I(Kr)-blocking effects may cause lethal proarrhythmia in susceptible individuals when delivered in high concentrations. This case illustrates the variation in repolarization reserve that exists in a free-standing population.

• Authors: Ajay K Joshi, Tatjana Sljapic, Hassan Borghei, Peter R Kowey
• Journal: Journal of cardiovascular electrophysiology (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol) Vol. 15 Issue 5 Pg. 591-3 (May 2004) ISSN: 1045-3873 [Print] United States
• PMID: 15149431 (Publication Type: Case Reports, Journal Article)

Chemical References

• Anti-Allergic Agents
• Diphenhydramine

Topics

• Adult
• Anti-Allergic Agents (poisoning)
• Diphenhydramine (poisoning)
• Drug Overdose
• Electric Countershock
• Electrocardiography
• Humans
• Recovery of Function
• Suicide, Attempted
• Torsades de Pointes (diagnosis, etiology, therapy)