Case of the Month #35 Calcium Channel Blocker Overdose

Published 19/01/2023

What is the management of calcium channel blocker overdose?

Early intubation and ventilation if life threatening toxicity suspected as well as invasive blood pressure monitoring. 

Cardiovascular support should be with fluid resuscitation, calcium replacement, vasopressors +/- inotropes. 

Pacing may be difficult. If attempted, use ventricular pacing to bypass atrioventricular blockade.  

High-dose insulin euglycaemic therapy has emerged as an effective treatment1.