A lipid emulsion reduces mortality from clomipramine overdose in rats.

Tricyclic antidepressants are a common cause of self poisoning. Since these drugs are highly lipid soluble, we examined the interaction between imipramine and a lipid emulsion. Rats were given an iv dose of imipramine with either normal saline or a lipid emulsion as vehicle. The rats who received the lipid emulsion had a significantly lower mortality. The role of lipid emulsions poisoning therapy is reviewed.