What is the primary treatment for beta-blocker overdose?

The primary treatment for beta-blocker overdose focuses on addressing the decrease in heart rate and cardiac output caused by beta-adrenergic blockade. Atropine is an anticholinergic agent that can be effective in managing bradycardia, a common manifestation of beta-blocker overdose. It works by inhibiting the effects of the vagus nerve on the heart, effectively increasing heart rate.

In cases of severe beta-blocker toxicity, where there are significant cardiovascular effects, atropine may be utilized to help stabilize heart rate and improve hemodynamics, making it a useful first-line agent alongside other supportive measures.

While other treatments such as vasopressors can be employed to counteract hypotension, they are typically used as adjunctive therapy rather than primary treatment. Calcium channel blockers and antidepressants are not central to the management of beta-blocker overdose.

The administration of atropine addresses the immediate danger of bradycardia effectively, which is why it is considered the primary treatment in the context of beta-blocker toxicity.