Be Ready to Manage Symptoms of Stimulant Toxicity

Increases in overdose death rates will lead to questions about managing toxicity from cocaine, amphetamines, or other stimulants.

Watch for signs, such as agitation, hypertension, sweating, and tachycardia...or severe cases, such as hyperthermia or acute MI.

Ask about drug use. Suggest a tox screen...but don't rely on it alone. For example, a urine drug screen for amphetamines isn't likely to detect the stimulant found in "bath salts."