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Case Reports
. 2020 May 21;10(2):151-153.
doi: 10.1080/20009666.2020.1749511.

QT interval prolongation and rhabdomyolysis associated with diphenhydramine toxicity: a case report

Zain Ali  1 , Mariya Khan  2 , Waqas Ullah  1 , Atsoufui A Kpehor  1 , Muhammad Arslan Cheema  1
Affiliations
Case Reports

QT interval prolongation and rhabdomyolysis associated with diphenhydramine toxicity: a case report

Zain Ali et al. J Community Hosp Intern Med Perspect. .

Abstract

Diphenhydramine is a widely available, over-the-counter medication used for allergies and as a sleeping aid. When used in prescription doses, it is generally safe. Overdose of the medication has been associated with dangerous and life-threatening outcomes. Our case describes diphenhydramine toxicity manifesting with two rare but potentially life-threatening complications, rhabdomyolysis, and QT prolongation. Laboratory testing for diphenhydramine levels are not widely available. We recommend a high degree of suspicion for these complications when evaluating patients with diphenhydramine overdose, to adequately manage and prevent untoward outcomes.

Keywords: Diphenhydramine toxicity; QTC prolongation; anticholinergic toxidrome; rhabdomyolysis.

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Conflict of interest statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

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