| Drugs in this class (eg, propanolol, atenolol, timolol) act by competitively inhibiting catecholamine binding to β-adrenergic receptor sites. The most common signs of overdose are bradycardia and hypotension; respiratory depression, coma, seizures, hyperkalemia, and hypoglycemia may occur. It is also possible to precipitate congestive heart failure. Significant clinical signs
may arise even at therapeutic (published) doses—no approved veterinary products are on the market. |
| Because of rapid absorption, emesis should only be induced within minutes of ingestion. Administration of activated charcoal should be considered if either multiple tablets or capsules or sustained-release formulation tablets are ingested. Heart rate and clinical condition should be monitored for at least 2-4 hr for the development of signs. If clinical signs do develop, blood chemistries should also be measured. Hypotension should be treated with IV fluids; atropine can be used
for bradycardia. If hyperkalemia is confirmed, administration of insulin, followed by IV glucose, may drive the excess potassium back into the cells. |
