Slow, sustained ror controlled elease drug formulations have therapeutic benefits. However, an overdose with such a drug has a number of disadvantages.
Drugs with a slow or sustained release formulation include:
(1) potassium
(2) carbamazepine
(3) verapamil
(4) analgesics
(5) lithium
An overdose with a sustained or slow release formulation may:
(1) have a delayed relapse after initial resuscitation
(2) need for a comprehensive strategy to achieve decontamination
(3) need continuous monitoring for a prolonged period
(4) be part of a multi-drug overdose
Repeated or continuous gastrointestinal decontamination with activated charcoal and/or irrigation may prove inadequate. It may be necessary to implement hemoperfusion or other elimination strategy.
Having an idea of what and how much was taken can help guide management. A lack of information can make management extremely difficult, especially if presentation is delayed.
Early discharge from the Emergency Department should be discouraged.
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