Successful resuscitation and survival following massive overdose of metoprolol

Abstract

A 23-year-old female was found unconscious and deteriorated rapidly to cardiac asystole. Prolonged resuscitation was required, and she remained in severe cardiogenic shock, despite high doses of positive inotropic agents. Massive beta-adrenoceptor blocker overdose was suspected (and subsequently confirmed). IV administration of glucagon was followed by prompt haemodynamic improvement and recovery, illustrating the beneficial role of glucagon in overwhelming beta-adrenoceptor blockade.