G. Catalano et al., QTc interval prolongation associated with citalopram overdose: A case report and literature review, CLIN NEUROP, 24(3), 2001, pp. 158-162
Citalopram is a member of the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor class
of antidepressants. In 1998, citalopram was approved by the US Food and Dru
g Administration for the treatment of major depression. Like the other sele
ctive serotonin reuptake inhibitors, citalopram enjoys a relatively benign
side effect profile compared with the tricyclic antidepressants and the mon
oamine oxidase inhibitors. However, citalopram has been associated with ele
ctrocardiographic changes and seizures at doses greater than 600 mg per day
. Fatalities have occurred with citalopram-only overdoses. We report the ca
se of a healthy 21-year-old woman who developed QTc interval prolongation a
fter ingestion of approximately 400 mg citalopram. We discuss the cardiac e
ffects of citalopram, review previous cases of citalopram overdose, and dis
cuss treatment recommendations.