Successful Management of ExtendedRelease Verapamil Intoxication: A Case Report

Abstract

Treatment strategies for the management of verapamil intoxication are still unclear, although it can have fatal consequences. A 20-year-old female, who was treated regularly with extended-release verapamil 120 mg/d because of supraventricular tachycardia, took 15 tablets of extended-release verapamil 120 mg (1800 mg). Her medical status deteriorated due to extended-release verapamil intoxication and she was successfully treated with cardiac pacemaker, fluid and electrolyte replacement and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation therapy (ECMO). Although supportive therapies are important in verapamil intoxication, development of atrioventricular block and fatal bradycardia is possible so pacemaker implantation on time and ECMO to accelerate decontamination can be life-saving as shown in the case.