Cyclizine Toxicity and Misuse in an Adolescent With Eating Disorder and Depression: A Case Report
Abstract
Cyclizine is a first-generation H1 antihistamine widely used for the treatment of nausea and motion sickness. In addition to its antiemetic properties, it has anticholinergic and central nervous system effects that may confer psychoactive potential. Although generally regarded as a low-risk medication, increasing evidence suggests a potential for misuse, particularly among adolescents and individuals with mental health disorders or substance-use vulnerabilities. Published data on cyclizine toxicity are limited, and paediatric reports of intentional overdose remain scarce. We report a case of intentional cyclizine overdose in a 14-year-old girl with underlying mental health disorders, highlighting the clinical presentation, management considerations, including serial electrocardiographic assessment, and safeguarding implications. This case underscores the need for increased clinician awareness of cyclizine misuse and its potential harms in the paediatric population.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Poisoning and overdose treatments
Respiratory and Cough-Related Research
Pharmacology and Obesity Treatment
Publication details
- Journal / source
- Cureus
- Publisher
- Springer Science and Business Media LLC
- Volume
- 18
- Issue
- 1
- Pages
- e101873–e101873
- Publication date
- 19 January 2026
- Language
- EN