The protein binding of calcium channel blockers means that techniques such as haemofiltration and dialysis are of no benefit.
Initial treatment should be gastric lavage and the administration of activated charcoal. If large amounts of drug have been taken then complete gut lavage should be considered.
Although hypotension is often resistant to fluid infusion, hydration should be maintained with 0.9% saline i.v.
Cardiac function may improve with the administration of calcium chloride:
Glucagon (10 mg i.v.) may have a positive chrono- and ino- tropic effect.
Resistent hypotension may require vasopressor agents such as isoprenaline or dopamine.
Pulmonary oedema is usually cardiogenic. It may respond to diuretics.
An intra-aortic balloon or extracorporeal circulation are interventions of last resort.
Rarely, hyperglycaemia will require insulin therapy.
Annotations allow you to add information to this page that would be handy to have on hand during a consultation. E.g. a website or number. This information will always show when you visit this page.