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Beta blockers overdose - Overview

Definition of Beta blockers overdose:

Beta blockers are a type of drug used to treat high blood pressure.

Beta blocker overdose occurs when someone accidentally or intentionally takes more than the normal or recommended amount of this medication.

This is for information only and not for use in the treatment or management of an actual poison exposure. If you have an exposure, you should call your local emergency number (such as 911) or the National Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222.

Poisonous Ingredient:

The specific ingredient in such drugs varies among manufacturers. The main ingredient is a beta-adrenergic blocking substance. It blocks the effects of a hormone called epinephrine on the body. Epinephrine is also called adrenaline.

Where Found:

Prescription beta blockers are sold under various names, including:

Acebutolol (Sectral)
Atenolol (Apo-atenolol)
Betaxolol (Kerlone)
Bisoprolol (Zebta)
Carteolol (Cartrol)
Esmolol (Brevibloc)
Labetalol (Normodyne)
Metoprolol (Toprol)
Nadolol (Corgard)
Sotalol (Betapace)
Oxprenolol (Trasicor)
Penbutolol (Levatol)
Pindolol (Novo-pindol)
Propranolol (Inderal)
Timolol (Apo-timol)

Note: This list may not be all-inclusive.

Reviewed last on: 2/3/2009
A.D.A.M. Editorial Team: David Zieve, MD, MHA, Greg Juhn, MTPW, David R. Eltz. Previously reviewed by Eric Perez, MD, Department of Emergency Medicine, St. Luke's-Roosevelt Hospital Center, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network (1/23/2008).

References

Wax PM, Erdman AR, Chyka PA, et al. Beta-blocker ingestion: an evidence-based consensus guideline for out-of-hospital management. Clin Toxicol. 2005;43(3):131-146.

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