Single-Dose Calcium Channel Blocker Toxicity in a Patient With Severe Liver Disease

Abstract

Calcium channel blockers (CCBs) are commonly used in the management of multiple diseases, including hypertension, arrhythmia, and vasospastic disorder. Nimodipine, a dihydropyridine CCB, has demonstrated utility in preserving hearing following vestibular schwannoma resection surgery. Due to its widespread use, CCB overdose is common. This case report presents a unique case of CCB toxicity in a 56-year-old female with end-stage liver dysfunction. The patient developed vasodilatory shock after receiving a single dose of prophylactic nimodipine following vestibular schwannoma surgery. The primary objective of this report is to highlight the unique risk for CCB toxicity that exists for patients with advanced liver disease who receive nimodipine in the perioperative setting.