Pheniramine aminosalicylate overdosage. Reversal of delirium and choreiform movements with tacrine treatment

Abstract

We describe a case of central anticholinergic syndrome with choreiform movements after an overdose of pheniramine aminosalicylate. The symptoms and signs of the condition were reversed by the intravenous administration of the cholinesterase-inhibitor tetrahydroaminacrine. We also discuss the concept of adrenergic-cholinergic imbalance in relation to this case and recommend the use of centrally acting anticholinesterase agents in the treatment of specific cases of drug overdose.