Exploring Olanzapine Overdose in an Ethiopian Patient: A Case Report

Abstract

Background
Olanzapine is an atypical antipsychotic drug that has been Food and Drug Admin-istration (FDA) approved for schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. It has a tolerable side effect profile of some metabolic disturbance, including weight gain and hyper-glycemia. Even though it has a broad therapeutic index, ingestion in large amounts can result in toxic manifestations, which are an extension of its pharmacodynamics.
Case Presentation
We are reporting a 58-year-old man who presented after ingesting 90 tablets (450mg) of olanzapine 5mg. He presented with difficulty in communication, with clinical findings of hypertension and tachycardia 8 hours after his ingestion. Addi-tionally, laboratory investigations revealed prolonged QTc and mild hyponatremia.
Discussion
Owing to its broad-spectrum action on different central nervous system receptors, olanzapine has a wide range of clinical presentations. These include agitation, delir-ium, somnolence, respiratory depression, and hypertension or hypotension. Patients may also experience catastrophic complications such as cardiac toxicity.
Conclusion
This is the first case of olanzapine overdose in an Ethiopian patient, and it has given us insight as to how to approach and manage such patients. Moreover, despite the high dose of ingestion, a benign presentation was witnessed. Hence, we believe this case report will serve as a stepping stone for future such encounters.