sofidexFor patientsAre you a clinician? Clinical site

Warning-sign checks

Calcium-channel blocker 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

    Immediate danger still requires emergency services.

    Seek emergency care for fainting, severe breathing difficulty, chest discomfort, confusion, inability to wake, or a new suspected overdose.

    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

    After discharge, contact the treating clinician promptly for new dizziness, unusual weakness, medication questions, or trouble following the recovery plan.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    After an accidental overdose, follow-up may include reviewing all prescription and nonprescription medicines with a clinician or pharmacist.

    Pill organizers, written medication schedules, pharmacy-prepared packaging, and reminders may help prevent repeat dosing errors.

    Medicines should be stored in their original child-resistant containers, locked away from children and others who could be harmed.

    If the overdose was intentional, follow-up should include a mental health assessment and a practical safety plan.

    Family members or trusted supports may be asked to help secure medicines while the person recovers.

    In the United States, someone experiencing suicidal thoughts can call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

    And for anyone, someone who:

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

The article also says

Before discharge, the care team will confirm that blood pressure, heart rhythm, alertness, breathing, and laboratory results are stable without intensive support.

The required observation period is individualized.

Do not restart, replace, or change a calcium-channel blocker unless the treating clinician or regular prescriber advises it.

The team may need to reconsider blood pressure or heart treatment after recovery.

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