Has been in a deep sleep for several days due to taking too many antidepressants—how long until they wake up?

Nov 21, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Baohua
Introduction
Overdose of antidepressants may cause neurological symptoms such as dizziness, drowsiness, and coma; in severe cases, it can lead to life-threatening conditions such as cardiac arrest and respiratory failure. After drug overdose, excessively high drug concentrations in the body continuously suppress the central nervous system, prolonging the duration of unconsciousness. The time to regaining consciousness is influenced by the drug's half-life, metabolic rate, and individual tolerance.

Under normal circumstances, an overdose of antidepressants can lead to drowsiness. The time it takes for a person to regain consciousness varies depending on the type of drug, dosage, and individual differences, making it impossible to determine the exact duration of unconsciousness. Immediate medical attention and emergency measures are required. Detailed analysis is as follows:

An overdose of antidepressants may cause neurological symptoms such as dizziness, drowsiness, and coma. In severe cases, it can lead to life-threatening conditions such as cardiac arrest or respiratory failure. After an overdose, excessively high drug concentrations in the body continuously suppress the central nervous system, prolonging the period of unconsciousness. The time to regaining consciousness is influenced by the drug's half-life, metabolic rate, and individual tolerance. For example, tricyclic antidepressants delay gastric emptying, increasing the risk of poisoning and potentially leading to a longer duration of drowsiness.

If an overdose is suspected, emergency services should be called immediately. The patient should be moved to a safe location and kept with an open airway. Try to determine the type and amount of drug taken and inform emergency responders. Medical personnel will perform gastric lavage and administer laxatives to reduce drug absorption, monitor vital signs, and provide supportive treatments such as oxygen therapy and intravenous fluids. Antidotes may be used if necessary.

The patient must remain under observation in the hospital, where doctors will adjust the treatment plan according to their condition.