Faculty Collaboration Database

Doxylamine overdose as a potential cause of rhabdomyolysis. Am J Med Sci 2001 Jul;322(1):48-9

Date

07/24/2001

Pubmed ID

11465247

DOI

10.1097/00000441-200107000-00009

Scopus ID

2-s2.0-0034924049 (requires institutional sign-in at Scopus site)   21 Citations

Abstract

Doxylamine succinate, an over-the-counter antihistamine, is commonly used as a nighttime sleep aid in the short-term management of insomnia. It is also used in combination with antitussive and decongestant agents for the temporary relief of common cold symptoms. Doxylamine is frequently involved in accidental and intentional overdoses. Rhabdomyolysis and secondary acute renal failure are rare but potentially serious complications, making early recognition and treatment essential. With the large number of nonprescription antihistamines and sleep aids available to the general public, it is important to keep in mind that overdose is a potential problem. The complications associated with overdose of these medications are just as life threatening as those associated with prescription drugs. A high index of suspicion and evaluation of rhabdomyolysis is warranted in antihistamine toxicity. We report an observation of severe rhabdomyolysis associated with doxylamine overdose.

Author List

Leybishkis B, Fasseas P, Ryan KF

Author

Panayotis Fasseas MD Associate Professor in the Medicine department at Medical College of Wisconsin

MESH terms used to index this publication - Major topics in bold

Acute Kidney Injury
Adult
Doxylamine
Drug Overdose
Histamine H1 Antagonists
Humans
Male
Nonprescription Drugs
Rhabdomyolysis
Self Medication