Seizures and intraventricular conduction defect in propranolol poisoning. A report of two cases.

We have recently seen two cases of propranolol poisoning. In both instances, plasma propranolol levels were elevated. Both patients experienced generalized seizures and had a transient intraventricular conduction defect on electrocardiogram. The literature on intoxication of propranolol and other beta-adrenoceptor blocking drugs suggests that the effects of massive propranolol intoxication observed in our patients can be explained on the basis of the pharmacologic properties of propranolol. Therapy consisted of gastric lavage and agents to antagonize the beta-adrenoceptor blockade effect. Both patients recovered.