A 24-year-old patient arrives at the emergency department experiencing dizziness, dry mouth, and blurred vision after reportedly ingesting a large quantity of medication following a breakup. The patient's heart rate is elevated and they are exhibiting signs of urinary retention. Which medication overdose should be suspected?
The symptoms of dizziness, dry mouth, blurred vision, elevated heart rate, and urinary retention are characteristic of an anticholinergic overdose, which includes medications like atropine, antihistamines, and certain antidepressants. These symptoms align with anticholinergic toxicity, which commonly causes central nervous system disturbances (like hallucinations), dry skin, and hyperthermia, among others. The effects on the autonomic nervous system lead to tachycardia and urinary retention. Other listed options can present with some overlapping symptoms but are not characterized predominantly by pronounced anticholinergic effects like dry mouth and blurred vision.
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Mental Health Emergencies
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