Seizure activity after venlafaxine overdose

Abstract

Objective: To report the findings from the case of a patient developing first-time seizure activity following an overdose of venlafaxine. Case Summary: A 27-year-old man with major depression ingested 60 venlafaxine 75-mg capsules in an apparent suicide attempt. The patient experienced generalized seizure activity 9 and 11 hours after ingestion. The electroencephalogram showed a pathologic pattern, with several generalized epileptiform discharges. Venlafaxine was discontinued, and no further sequelae were observed. Discussion: The Naranjo probability scale indicated a probable relationship between the seizures and venlafaxine overdose. The mechanism of seizures associated with venlafaxine overdose is unclear. Neurotransmitters play an important role in seizure genesis, and hepatic damage may occur. Conclusions: Clinicians should be aware of proconvulsant effect and the risk of hepatocellular injury from venlafaxine overdose when prescribing this drug.