Propranolol intoxication. A severe case responding to norepinephrine therapy

• A patient with serious propranolol hydrochloride intoxication had seizures, hypotension, and was in a coma. Large amounts of propranolol were found in her serum and urine. Isoproterenol hydrochloride, a specific β-receptor agonist, was not effective in therapy. Hemodynamic improvement occurred with norepinephrine bitartrate. The half-life of propranolol was prolonged. She fully recovered. (Arch Intern Med1981;141:810-811)