Analysis of sertraline-only overdoses

Abstract

Sertraline is an antidepressant for which preliminary data suggest a low inherent toxicity. Previously reported case series have included coingestants or had small numbers of patients. This study was undertaken to determine the toxicity of overdoses of sertraline alone. A 2-year retrospective and 6-month prospective study was conducted at a regional poison center. There were 52 patients with a mean age of 19.3 +/- 13.8 years and a mean dose of 727 +/- 686 mg. There were no symptoms in 34 cases. Symptomatic patients experienced mild central nervous system, cardiovascular, and gastrointestinal effects. Two patients developed bradycardia which resolved without therapy. While all but 3 of 38 adolescents and adults were treated in a health care facility, 10 of 14 children were managed at home. Gastrointestinal decontamination was performed in 37 cases. No other specific therapy was required. Serious toxicity would not be expected following sertraline-only overdoses.