Tuesday 9 November 2010

MRCP revision battle 44.6: Theophylline overdose

Theophylline/aminophylline has a narrow therapeutic window so overdoses may occur accidentally.


Signs and symptoms of toxicity include:
  • vomiting
  • tachycardia
  • arrythmias
  • seizures
  • confusion

Treatment is with repeated doses of activated charcoal.  Haemoperfusion and haemodialysis may also be considered.



And to finish off the day, and the hattrick of overdoses - an antifreeze overdose