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Warning-sign checks

Beta-blockers overdose: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Seek emergency care after discharge for fainting, severe dizziness, trouble breathing, a seizure, new confusion, inability to stay awake, chest pain, or a very slow or irregular pulse.

    Immediate help is appropriate if thoughts of self-harm return.

    And for anyone, someone who:

    • is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Call the care team promptly for milder symptoms that are new, persistent, or worsening.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Routine follow-up may include a medication review with a doctor or pharmacist.

    This can identify duplicate prescriptions, confusing labels, kidney-related dose concerns, or drug combinations that may need closer monitoring.

    When an overdose was related to self-harm, follow-up should include a mental health assessment and a practical safety plan.

    This may involve limiting access to large amounts of medicine, involving a trusted support person, and arranging timely behavioral health care.

    And for anyone, someone who:

    • is having side effects from a medicine, or is struggling to take it as prescribed

The article also says

After an uncomplicated evaluation, follow the discharge instructions about activity, medicines, and warning signs.

Do not restart, stop, or change a prescribed beta-blocker unless the treating clinician explains when and how to do so.

Suddenly stopping some beta-blockers can worsen chest pain, blood pressure, or heart rhythm problems.

To reduce future medication errors:

Keep medicines in clearly labeled, child-resistant containers.

Store them out of sight and reach of children.

Use a medication list or pill organizer carefully.

Ask a pharmacist what to do after a missed dose.

Never take an extra dose unless a clinician has told you to.

Dispose of unused medicines through a pharmacy or community take-back program.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Beta-blockers overdose. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.