Etude clinique : (2024)
Introduction : Olanzapine, a second-generation (atypical) antipsychotic, is widely used in the treatment of severe psychiatric disorders. Since its introduction in 1996, its use has increased, resulting in a higher incidence of both intentional and accidental overdoses.
Objectifs : This study aims to describe the clinical features, management strategies, and outcomes associated with acute olanzapine mono-intoxication.
Méthode : A retrospective descriptive study was conducted at the Mahmoud Yaacoub Center for Emergency Medical Assistance in Tunis, over four years (June 2020 to June 2024). All adult patients (≥16 years) presenting to the emergency department (ED) with suspected acute olanzapine overdose were included. Data were collected on the estimated ingested dose, time to presentation, symptoms, clinical findings, laboratory results, management approaches, and patient outcomes.
Résultats : A total of 52 patients were included, with a median age of 23 years (range: 20-37.3), and a female predominance (sex ratio 1.8). Most patients (86.5%) had a psychiatric history, with the most common diagnoses being schizophrenia (28.8%), bipolar disorder (23.1%), and depression (15.4%). Ingested olanzapine doses ranged from 25 mg to 340 mg, with a median of 80 mg (range: 52.5-150 mg). The median length of stay in the ED was 5.5 hours (range: 2-6).
Neurological symptoms were prominent in 61.5% of patients. The most frequent initial clinical signs included somnolence (32.7%), agitation (23.1%), coma (6%), tachycardia (19.2%), nausea (38.5%), vomiting (13.7%), and miosis (42.3%). No patients exhibited respiratory depression or hemodynamic instability.
Management was primarily symptomatic. Four patients required mechanical ventilation and supportive cardiovascular care. One patient received activated charcoal. Thirteen patients were admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) for close monitoring. Two agitated patients were treated with midazolam, yielding favorable outcomes. Psychiatric referrals were made for 13 patients (23.1%), and 17 (32.7%) were referred for psychiatric consultation. Six patients (11.5%) were discharged home directly.
Conclusion : Acute olanzapine overdose predominantly manifests as neurological symptoms, with management focused on symptomatic care. Early recognition of overdose symptoms and prompt medical intervention are critical in improving patient outcomes.