Tricyclic antidepressant overdose management

Managing a tricyclic antidepressant overdose involves prompt medical care. Health providers monitor heart function, as these drugs can cause irregular heartbeats, and may give treatments like activated charcoal to prevent absorption, or medications like sodium bicarbonate to stabilize the heart. Other supportive measures include IV fluids, oxygen, and close observation. If severe signs develop, such as seizures or dangerously abnormal heart rhythms, advanced interventions like ventilator support or specific antidotes are used. Immediate emergency attention is crucial because overdose can be life-threatening, and early treatment improves outcomes.