Fatal Bupropion Overdose

Abstract

Background: Bupropion is a unique monocyclic antidepressant that has been known to cause seizures in high therapeutic doses and in acute overdoses. Death due to ingestion, however, is a rare occurrence. Case Report: We report a case of a 26-year-old man who ingested 23 g bupropion, developed seizures and hypoxia, and presented in cardiac arrest. The patient was resuscitated in the emergency department, but died 4 d after supportive intensive care. Conclusions: Bupropion overdose may lead to recurrent seizures, hypoxia and death. Aggressive management of severe bupropion overdose is recommended