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H2 receptor antagonists overdose

Definition

H2 receptor antagonists are medicines that help decrease stomach acid. H2 receptor antagonist overdose occurs when someone accidentally or intentionally takes more than the normal or recommended amount of this medication.

Alternative Names

Cimetidine overdose; Tagamet overdose; Ranitidine overdose; Zantac overdose; Famotidine overdose; Pepcid overdose; Nizatidine overdose; Axid overdose

Poisonous Ingredient

  • Cimetidine
  • Ranitidine
  • Famotidine
  • Nizatidine

Note: This list may not be all inclusive.

Where Found

H2 receptor antagonist medications are available over-the-counter and by prescription.
  • Cimetidine (Tagamet)
  • Ranitidine (Zantac)
  • Famotidine (Pepcid)
  • Nizatidine (Axid)
Note: This list may not be all inclusive.

Symptoms

  • Abnormal heartbeat
  • Confusion
  • Diarrhea
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Drowsiness
  • Flushing
  • Low blood pressure
  • Nausea
  • Rapid heartbeat or slow heartbeat
  • Slurred speech
  • Sweating
  • Vomiting

Home Care

Seek immediate medical help. DO NOT make a person throw up unless told to do so by Poison Control or a health care professional.

Before Calling Emergency

Determine the following information:

  • Patient's age, weight, and condition
  • The name of the product (ingredients and strengths if known)
  • When it was swallowed
  • The amount swallowed

Poison Control

The National Poison Control Center (1-800-222-1222) can be called from anywhere in the United States. This national hotline number will let you talk to experts in poisoning. They will give you further instructions.

This is a free and confidential service. All local poison control centers in the United States use this national number. You should call if you have any questions about poisoning or poison prevention. It does NOT need to be an emergency. You can call for any reason, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Take the container with you to the hospital, if possible.

See: Poison control center - emergency number

What to Expect at the Emergency Room

The health care provider will measure and monitor the patient's vital signs, including temperature, pulse, breathing rate, and blood pressure. Symptoms will be treated as appropriate. The patient may receive:

  • Activated charcoal
  • Laxative

Outlook (Prognosis)

Serious complications are rare.

References

Feldman M, Friedman LS, Sleisenger MH, eds. Sleisenger & Fordtran’s Gastrointestinal and Liver Disease. 7th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: WB Saunders; 2002: 759.

Goldfrank LR, Flomenbaum NE, Lewin NA, et al. Goldfrank's Toxicologic Emergencies. 7th ed. New York, NY: McGraw Hill; 2002.

Review Date: 10/29/2007
Reviewed By: Eric Perez, MD, Department of Emergency Medicine, St. Luke's-Roosevelt Hospital Center, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997- A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
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