CNS drugs and antiepileptics mnemonic

Complications of tricyclic antidepressant overdose

The mnemonic

3 Cs

What each word stands for

  • CConvulsions
  • CCardiac arrhythmias
  • CComa

Why it matters clinically

Directs early ECG monitoring and sodium bicarbonate for wide QRS.

Where it stops being reliable

Anticholinergic features and hypotension are not covered.

Teaching aid, still awaiting independent review. Confirm facts in a standard source.

More mnemonics

Common questions

What is the CNS drugs and antiepileptics mnemonic?

3 Cs. It helps you recall: Complications of tricyclic antidepressant overdose.

What does "C" stand for?

Coma

What are all the parts of the 3 Cs mnemonic?

C: Convulsions; C: Cardiac arrhythmias; C: Coma.

Which topic does this mnemonic belong to?

It belongs to CNS drugs and antiepileptics in Pharmacology.

Where does this mnemonic stop being reliable?

Anticholinergic features and hypotension are not covered.

How is this useful clinically?

Directs early ECG monitoring and sodium bicarbonate for wide QRS.

How do I make this mnemonic stick?

Say it aloud, write it from memory tomorrow, then again in a week. Then test yourself on a Pharmacology question about CNS drugs and antiepileptics.

Is this a standard mnemonic?

It is a teaching aid written or adapted by our team. Some resemble ones students share informally. Check any fact that matters in a standard source.