Abstract
Fentanyl is frequently used for analgesia during emergency procedures. We present the cases of 2 patients who developed agitation and delirium after intravenous fentanyl administration. These patients were chronically taking selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Both developed neuromuscular examinations consistent with serotonin syndrome, a diagnosis that must be established on the basis of clinical criteria. Although they required aggressive supportive care, including mechanical ventilation, both patients made a full recovery. Use of fentanyl for procedural sedation may precipitate serotonin syndrome in patients taking SSRIs or other serotonergic drugs.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 477-480 |
Number of pages | 4 |
Journal | Journal of Emergency Medicine |
Volume | 38 |
Issue number | 4 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - May 2010 |
Externally published | Yes |
Keywords
- drug interaction
- fentanyl
- procedural sedation
- serotonin syndrome
- serotonin toxicity
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Emergency Medicine