[Beta adrenergic receptor blockade : a self-limited phenomenon explaining the benignancy of acute poisoning with beta adrenergic inhibitors. Report of a series of 40 patients seen at the Fernand-Widal Toxicology Center, with a 0% mortality rate (author's transl)].

Acute poisoning with beta adrenergic inhibitors is rare although such drugs are widely prescribed. Between 1966 and 1980, 40 cases were recorded at the Fernand-Widal Toxicology Center. 40% of patients were asymptomatic and 25% had sinus bradycardia. 35% of patients had specific toxic signs, either atrioventricular block (20%) or hemodynamic disorders (15%); the latter were seen only when associated heart disease was present or when another cardiotropic agent had been absorbed. No deaths were recorded. This favorable prognosis may result from the self-limited nature of poisoning with beta blocking agents, myocardial function being similar to that which follows denervation. In severe cases, management includes pacing and glucagon.