Calcium antagonists

Definition

This is poisoning from ingestion of a calcium antagonist.

Poisonous Ingredient

any of the following

• amlodipine
  
• bepridil
  
• diltiazem
  
• felodipine
  
• isradipine
  
• nicardipine
  
• nifedipine
  
• nimodipine
  
• verapamil
  

Note: This list may not be all inclusive.

Where Found

• amlodipine (Norvasc)
  
• bepridil (Vascor)
  
• diltiazem (Cardizem, Dilacor)
  
• felodipine (Plendil)
  
• isradipine (DynaCirc)
  
• nicardipine (Cardene)
  
• nifedipine (Adalat, Procardia)
  
• nimodipine (Nimotop)
  
• verapamil (Calan, Isoptin, Verelan)
  

Note: This list may not be all inclusive.

Symptoms

• body as a whole
  
• weakness
  
• dizziness
  
• drowsiness
  
• confusion
  
• slurred speech
  
• gastrointestinal
  
• nausea
  
• constipation
  
• heart and blood vessels
  
• low blood pressure
  
• slow heartbeat
  
• irregular heartbeat
  
• respiratory
  
• shortness of breath
  

DefinitionHome Treatment
Do not induce vomiting unless instructed to do so by Poison Control or a health professional.

Before Calling Emergency

Determine the following information:

• the patient's age, weight, and condition
  
• the name of the product (ingredients and strengths if known)
  
• the time it was swallowed
  
• the amount swallowed
  

They will instruct you if it is necessary to take the patient to the hospital. See Poison Control centers for telephone numbers and addresses. Take the container with you to the emergency room.