Beta-Blocker Overdose

Question 1

What is beta-blocker overdose?

Answer 1

It is defined as excessive ingestion of the betablocker drug class

Question 2

What are the four clinical features associated with beta-blocker overdose?

Answer 2

Bradycardia

Hypotension

Syncope

Heart Failure

Question 3

What are the three pharmacological management options of beta-blocker overdose?

Answer 3

Activated Charcoal

Atropine

Glucagon

Question 4

When is activated charcoal used to manage beta-blocker overdose?

Answer 4

It is recommended in individuals who present within one hour of overdose

Question 5

When is atropine used to manage beta-blocker overdose?

Answer 5

It is the first line management option in beta-blocker overdoses

Question 6

How does atropine treat beta-blocker overdose?

Answer 6

It is a muscarinic antagonist, which relieves bradycardic features through improving atrioventricular conduction of the heart

Question 7

When is glucagon used to manage beta-blocker overdose?

Answer 7

It is the second line management option in beta-blocker overdoses

Question 8

How does glucagon treat beta-blocker overdoses?

Answer 8

It increases heart rate, myocardial contractility and improves atrioventricular conduction