In case of an antihistamine overdose, which treatment is most effective?

In the case of an antihistamine overdose, the most effective treatment is physostigmine. This medication is a reversible inhibitor of the enzyme acetylcholinesterase, which increases the levels of acetylcholine in the synaptic cleft. In antihistamine overdose, particularly with anticholinergic properties, symptoms can arise due to excessive blockade of acetylcholine receptors. Physostigmine effectively counteracts these effects by enhancing cholinergic transmission, thereby reversing symptoms such as confusion, agitation, and delirium associated with anticholinergic toxicity.

Activated charcoal can be useful in the management of many overdoses if administered soon after ingestion, as it binds to the drug in the gastrointestinal tract and limits absorption. However, it may not be as effective in severe antihistamine toxicity since patients may have already absorbed a significant portion before treatment.

Naloxone is an opioid antagonist used primarily for opioid overdoses and would not be effective in treating antihistamine overdose specifically, as it does not have a role in reversing the effects of non-opioid substances.

Flumazenil is a benzodiazepine antagonist and is used for benzodiazepine overdoses. Its use in cases not involving benzodiazepines, like antih