Benzodiazepine Overdose

Question 1

Signs/Symptoms?

Answer 1

Rapidly develop (4hrs):

Mild-moderate impaired CNS – intoxication, somnolence, diplopia, impaired balance, impaired motor function, anterograde amnesia, ataxia, slurred speech.

Severe: coma, apnoea, respiratory depression, hypoxaemia, hypothermia, hypotension, bradycardia, cardiac arrest, pulmonary aspiration.

Question 2

Mx (Airway)?

Answer 2

Maintain & clear airway

Oxygen PRN

Question 3

Mx (Breathing)?

Answer 3

ABG

Question 4

Mx (Circulation)?

Answer 4

IV access
Bloods: FBC, U&E’s, glucose
ECG

Question 5

Rx? (2)

Answer 5

Flumazenil

Naloxone (given slowly)