{"formatVersion":"1.1","id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/can-you-overdose-on-antipsychotics","path":"/library/can-you-overdose-on-antipsychotics","url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/can-you-overdose-on-antipsychotics","title":"Antipsychotics and Overdose Risks","family":"Library detail","description":"Like almost any drug, it's possible to overdose on antipsychotic medications. Therefore, you should never take more than what is prescribed for you.","language":"en-US","access":{"audience":"public","indexable":true},"provenance":{"sourceUrl":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/can-you-overdose-on-antipsychotics","wordpressId":"625","contentCompleteness":"complete","dateScope":"original-source"},"authors":[{"@type":"Person","@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/leila-khurshid#person","name":"Leila Khurshid, Pharm.D.","url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/leila-khurshid"}],"reviewer":{"@type":"Person","@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/morgan-blair#person","name":"Morgan Blair","url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/morgan-blair"},"dates":{"datePublished":"2023-09-29T12:20:15Z","dateModified":"2025-09-02T09:14:21Z","lastReviewed":"2023-09-29"},"content":{"html":"

Antipsychotics and Overdose Risks

Written by Leila Khurshid, Pharm.D.Medically reviewed by Morgan Blair, M.A.

Published on · Updated on

Antipsychotic medications play a key role in treating conditions such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and other psychiatric disorders.

However, understanding the potential risks associated with these medications is essential to ensure their safe and effective use. Navigating the realm of medication safety is a paramount concern for individuals managing their mental health and well-being.

One significant question that arises is whether it is possible to overdose on antipsychotics?

In this article, we will delve into the complexities of antipsychotic overdoses, examining factors that contribute to the risk of overdose, signs and symptoms to be aware of, and how to react during a potential overdose.

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Key takeaways

  • Antipsychotic overdose can cause serious cardiovascular and nervous-system complications.
  • Excess doses and combinations with other substances can increase toxicity, with symptoms ranging from sedation to delirium or coma.
  • Suspected overdose requires prompt medical assessment, monitoring, and treatment to stabilize the person.

Is it possible to overdose on antipsychotics?

It is possible to overdose on antipsychotics and is a matter of vital importance. Antipsychotic medications, like many other types of medications, have a therapeutic range in which they are effective and safe. Taking an excessive dose of antipsychotics can lead to serious health risks and complications.

Patients can develop cardiotoxicity, seizures, or coma, requiring an admission to an intensive care unit⁠[1]. These outcomes are associated with severe overdoses, with many antipsychotic overdoses resulting in mild sedation and patients being discharged six hours after the initial poisoning⁠[1]. Nonetheless, people have died due to overdosing on atypical antipsychotics⁠[2].

Atypical antipsychotics, such as clozapine, risperidone, olanzapine, quetiapine, and ziprasidone, were made available for use in the late 1980s⁠[2]. Deaths resulting from atypical antipsychotic overdose are often related to cardiovascular complications, but can also be the result of gastrointestinal, neurological, or endocrine issues⁠[2].

Since the late 1980s, morbidity and mortality from antipsychotic overdose has increased, with a 2016 Australian study showing that these increases occurred despite overall drug overdoses falling⁠[3]. Olanzapine and quetiapine accounted for 78% of these overdoses, whist atypical antipsychotics generally made up most overdoses⁠[4].

Subject matter expert

\"\"

Leila Khurshid, Pharm.D.

Clinical pharmacy and medication

View profile

How do antipsychotics cause toxicity?

Antipsychotics cause toxicity in multiple ways including obstructing potassium and sodium channels in the body, via alpha-1 adrenergic blockade and through anticholinergic effects⁠[4]. Various organs are impacted but the cardiovascular and central nervous system are affected worse than any others⁠[4].

What factors contribute to antipsychotic overdose?

Understanding the factors that contribute to antipsychotic overdose is crucial for preventing overdose and promoting safe medication use. Here are some key contributors to antipsychotic overdose:

  • Dose and Medication Strength: Taking a higher dose of antipsychotic medication than prescribed significantly increases the risk of overdose⁠[2]. Additionally, some formulations of antipsychotics may have higher concentrations, making them more potent.
  • Accidental Ingestion: Accidental ingestion can occur when someone, especially children, mistakenly ingests antipsychotic medication that was not stored securely or was mistaken for another medication.
  • Combining with Other Substances: Self-poisoning by mixing antipsychotic medications with alcohol, antidepressants, opioids, and other illicit drugs can potentiate the effects and increase the risk of overdose⁠[5].

Symptoms of antipsychotic overdose

Symptoms depend on the antipsychotic and the circumstances. For example, the Royal Children’s Hospital Melbourne guideline describes these possible effects of quetiapine poisoning:⁠[6]

  • Marked drowsiness or reduced consciousness
  • Rapid heartbeat
  • Low blood pressure
  • Confusion or delirium
  • Coma or, less commonly, seizures
  • Difficulty passing urine

An overdose does not produce the same symptoms in everyone. Other substances and the formulation can change its effects; modified-release quetiapine may cause delayed or prolonged symptoms. Seek urgent medical or poison-control advice after a suspected overdose rather than waiting for symptoms to appear⁠[6].

Treatment for antipsychotic overdose

The treatment for antipsychotic overdose involves swift medical intervention to stabilize the individual and address the effects of the overdose. It typically includes:

  1. Assessment and Monitoring: Healthcare professionals assess the individual's vital signs, conduct a physical examination, and gather information about the overdose circumstances.
  2. Supportive Care: Measures are taken to stabilize the person's condition, including providing oxygen, maintaining hydration, and managing blood pressure and heart rate⁠[1].
  3. Activated Charcoal or Gastric Lavage: If the overdose occurred recently, activated charcoal might be administered to absorb the excess medication⁠[1]. Gastric lavage (stomach pumping) could also be considered to remove the medication.
  4. Medication Reversal: In some cases, antidotes or medications may be used to counteract the effects of the overdose, if available and appropriate.
  5. Symptom Management: Healthcare professionals address specific symptoms such as sedation, abnormal heart rhythm, and respiratory insufficiency.  Patients may require intubation, hyperventilation,or plasma alkalinization⁠[1].
  6. Monitoring: The individual's vital signs, mental status, and other parameters are continuously monitored to detect any changes and ensure stabilization.
  7. Psychological Support: Individuals who have overdosed might require psychological support, from a counsellor or therapist, to manage any emotional distress or confusion.

The treatment approach depends on factors such as the type and amount of medication ingested, individual health status, and presence of other substances. Many antipsychotic overdoses will result in mild sedation, with patients allowed to leave hospital six hours after the initial poisoning⁠[1].

However, in serious cases, symptoms need to be managed effectively as quickly as possible. Seeking immediate medical attention is crucial in cases of antipsychotic overdose to prevent serious complications and ensure the person's well-being.

References

  1. Parsons, M., & Buckley, N. A. (1997). Overdose of Antipsychotic Drugs. CNS Drugs, 7(6), 427–441. Springer. Accessed October 10 2026.
  2. Trenton, A. J., Currier, G. W., & Zwemer, F. L. (2003). Fatalities Associated with Therapeutic Use and Overdose of Atypical Antipsychotics. CNS Drugs, 17(5), 307–324. Springer. Accessed October 10 2026.
  3. Berling, I., Buckley, N. A., & Isbister, G. K. (2016). The antipsychotic story: changes in prescriptions and overdose without better safety. British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology, 82(1), 249–254. Wiley. Accessed October 10 2026.
  4. DynaMed. (n.d.). Www.dynamed.com. dynamed.com.
  5. Tay, E., Sotiriou, A., Graham, G. G., Wilhelm, K., Snowden, L., & Day, R. O. (2019). Restarting antidepressant and antipsychotic medication after intentional overdoses: need for evidence-based guidance. Therapeutic Advances in Psychopharmacology, 9, 204512531983688. SAGE Journals. Accessed October 10 2026.
  6. The Royal Children’s Hospital Melbourne. (n.d.). Quetiapine Poisoning. Clinical Practice Guidelines. rch.org.au. Accessed October 10 2026.

Medical Content

The Clinical Affairs Team at MentalHealth.com is a dedicated group of medical professionals with diverse and extensive clinical experience. They actively contribute to the development of content, products, and services, and meticulously review all medical material before publication to ensure accuracy and alignment with current research and conversations in mental health. For more information, please visit the Editorial Policy.

About MentalHealth.com

MentalHealth.com helps people understand themselves, build healthier relationships, and access the right care. We bring together mental health education, diagnostics, and care management to support well-being throughout every phase of life.

\"\"

Author

Leila Khurshid, Pharm.D.

Pharm.D., BCPS

Leila Khursid is a medical reviewer with a Doctor of Pharmacy degree and completed a PGY1 Pharmacy Residency from St. Mark's Hospital.

Published
Updated
\"\"

Medical Reviewer

Morgan Blair, M.A.

MA, LPCC

Morgan Blair is a licensed therapist, writer and medical reviewer, holding a master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling from Northwestern University.

Reviewed
\"\"

Related community

Medications

Explore questions and perspectives about psychiatric medications and the treatment experience.

","text":"Home Library Medications Antipsychotics and Overdose Risks Antipsychotics and Overdose Risks Written by Leila Khurshid, Pharm.D.Medically reviewed by Morgan Blair, M.A. Published on September 29, 2023 · Updated on September 2, 2025 Antipsychotic medications play a key role in treating conditions such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and other psychiatric disorders. However, understanding the potential risks associated with these medications is essential to ensure their safe and effective use. Navigating the realm of medication safety is a paramount concern for individuals managing their mental health and well-being. One significant question that arises is whether it is possible to overdose on antipsychotics? In this article, we will delve into the complexities of antipsychotic overdoses, examining factors that contribute to the risk of overdose, signs and symptoms to be aware of, and how to react during a potential overdose. Key takeaways Antipsychotic overdose can cause serious cardiovascular and nervous-system complications. Excess doses and combinations with other substances can increase toxicity, with symptoms ranging from sedation to delirium or coma. Suspected overdose requires prompt medical assessment, monitoring, and treatment to stabilize the person. Is it possible to overdose on antipsychotics? It is possible to overdose on antipsychotics and is a matter of vital importance. Antipsychotic medications, like many other types of medications, have a therapeutic range in which they are effective and safe. Taking an excessive dose of antipsychotics can lead to serious health risks and complications. Patients can develop cardiotoxicity, seizures, or coma, requiring an admission to an intensive care unit⁠[1]. These outcomes are associated with severe overdoses, with many antipsychotic overdoses resulting in mild sedation and patients being discharged six hours after the initial poisoning⁠[1]. Nonetheless, people have died due to overdosing on atypical antipsychotics⁠[2]. Atypical antipsychotics, such as clozapine, risperidone, olanzapine, quetiapine, and ziprasidone, were made available for use in the late 1980s⁠[2]. Deaths resulting from atypical antipsychotic overdose are often related to cardiovascular complications, but can also be the result of gastrointestinal, neurological, or endocrine issues⁠[2]. Since the late 1980s, morbidity and mortality from antipsychotic overdose has increased, with a 2016 Australian study showing that these increases occurred despite overall drug overdoses falling⁠[3]. Olanzapine and quetiapine accounted for 78% of these overdoses, whist atypical antipsychotics generally made up most overdoses⁠[4]. Subject matter expert Leila Khurshid, Pharm.D. Clinical pharmacy and medication View profile How do antipsychotics cause toxicity? Antipsychotics cause toxicity in multiple ways including obstructing potassium and sodium channels in the body, via alpha-1 adrenergic blockade and through anticholinergic effects⁠[4]. Various organs are impacted but the cardiovascular and central nervous system are affected worse than any others⁠[4]. What factors contribute to antipsychotic overdose? Understanding the factors that contribute to antipsychotic overdose is crucial for preventing overdose and promoting safe medication use. Here are some key contributors to antipsychotic overdose: Dose and Medication Strength: Taking a higher dose of antipsychotic medication than prescribed significantly increases the risk of overdose⁠[2]. Additionally, some formulations of antipsychotics may have higher concentrations, making them more potent. Accidental Ingestion: Accidental ingestion can occur when someone, especially children, mistakenly ingests antipsychotic medication that was not stored securely or was mistaken for another medication. Combining with Other Substances: Self-poisoning by mixing antipsychotic medications with alcohol, antidepressants, opioids, and other illicit drugs can potentiate the effects and increase the risk of overdose⁠[5]. Symptoms of antipsychotic overdose Symptoms depend on the antipsychotic and the circumstances. For example, the Royal Children’s Hospital Melbourne guideline describes these possible effects of quetiapine poisoning:⁠[6] Marked drowsiness or reduced consciousness Rapid heartbeat Low blood pressure Confusion or delirium Coma or, less commonly, seizures Difficulty passing urine An overdose does not produce the same symptoms in everyone. Other substances and the formulation can change its effects; modified-release quetiapine may cause delayed or prolonged symptoms. Seek urgent medical or poison-control advice after a suspected overdose rather than waiting for symptoms to appear⁠[6]. Treatment for antipsychotic overdose The treatment for antipsychotic overdose involves swift medical intervention to stabilize the individual and address the effects of the overdose. It typically includes: Assessment and Monitoring: Healthcare professionals assess the individual's vital signs, conduct a physical examination, and gather information about the overdose circumstances. Supportive Care: Measures are taken to stabilize the person's condition, including providing oxygen, maintaining hydration, and managing blood pressure and heart rate⁠[1]. Activated Charcoal or Gastric Lavage: If the overdose occurred recently, activated charcoal might be administered to absorb the excess medication⁠[1]. Gastric lavage (stomach pumping) could also be considered to remove the medication. Medication Reversal: In some cases, antidotes or medications may be used to counteract the effects of the overdose, if available and appropriate. Symptom Management: Healthcare professionals address specific symptoms such as sedation, abnormal heart rhythm, and respiratory insufficiency. Patients may require intubation, hyperventilation,or plasma alkalinization⁠[1]. Monitoring: The individual's vital signs, mental status, and other parameters are continuously monitored to detect any changes and ensure stabilization. Psychological Support: Individuals who have overdosed might require psychological support, from a counsellor or therapist, to manage any emotional distress or confusion. The treatment approach depends on factors such as the type and amount of medication ingested, individual health status, and presence of other substances. Many antipsychotic overdoses will result in mild sedation, with patients allowed to leave hospital six hours after the initial poisoning⁠[1]. However, in serious cases, symptoms need to be managed effectively as quickly as possible. Seeking immediate medical attention is crucial in cases of antipsychotic overdose to prevent serious complications and ensure the person's well-being. References Parsons, M., & Buckley, N. A. (1997). Overdose of Antipsychotic Drugs. CNS Drugs, 7(6), 427–441. Springer. Accessed October 10 2026. Trenton, A. J., Currier, G. W., & Zwemer, F. L. (2003). Fatalities Associated with Therapeutic Use and Overdose of Atypical Antipsychotics. CNS Drugs, 17(5), 307–324. Springer. Accessed October 10 2026. Berling, I., Buckley, N. A., & Isbister, G. K. (2016). The antipsychotic story: changes in prescriptions and overdose without better safety. British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology, 82(1), 249–254. Wiley. Accessed October 10 2026. DynaMed. (n.d.). Www.dynamed.com. dynamed.com. Tay, E., Sotiriou, A., Graham, G. G., Wilhelm, K., Snowden, L., & Day, R. O. (2019). Restarting antidepressant and antipsychotic medication after intentional overdoses: need for evidence-based guidance. Therapeutic Advances in Psychopharmacology, 9, 204512531983688. SAGE Journals. Accessed October 10 2026. The Royal Children’s Hospital Melbourne. (n.d.). Quetiapine Poisoning. Clinical Practice Guidelines. rch.org.au. Accessed October 10 2026. Medical Content The Clinical Affairs Team at MentalHealth.com is a dedicated group of medical professionals with diverse and extensive clinical experience. They actively contribute to the development of content, products, and services, and meticulously review all medical material before publication to ensure accuracy and alignment with current research and conversations in mental health. For more information, please visit the Editorial Policy. About MentalHealth.com MentalHealth.com helps people understand themselves, build healthier relationships, and access the right care. We bring together mental health education, diagnostics, and care management to support well-being throughout every phase of life. Author Leila Khurshid, Pharm.D. Pharm.D., BCPS Leila Khursid is a medical reviewer with a Doctor of Pharmacy degree and completed a PGY1 Pharmacy Residency from St. Mark's Hospital. Published September 29, 2023 Updated September 2, 2025 Medical Reviewer Morgan Blair, M.A. MA, LPCC Morgan Blair is a licensed therapist, writer and medical reviewer, holding a master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling from Northwestern University. Reviewed September 29, 2023 Related community Medications Explore questions and perspectives about psychiatric medications and the treatment experience. Table of contentsChoose a section Is it possible to overdose on antipsychotics? How do antipsychotics cause toxicity? What factors contribute to antipsychotic overdose? 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Navigating the realm of medication safety is a paramount concern for individuals managing their mental health and well-being.\n\nOne significant question that arises is whether it is possible to overdose on antipsychotics?\n\nIn this article, we will delve into the complexities of antipsychotic overdoses, examining factors that contribute to the risk of overdose, signs and symptoms to be aware of, and how to react during a potential overdose.","text":"Antipsychotic medications play a key role in treating conditions such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and other psychiatric disorders. However, understanding the potential risks associated with these medications is essential to ensure their safe and effective use. Navigating the realm of medication safety is a paramount concern for individuals managing their mental health and well-being. One significant question that arises is whether it is possible to overdose on antipsychotics? 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