Substance Abuse Emergencies

Abstract

Substance abuse is a major clinical problem in emergency care. Rapid physiological evaluation and identification of responsible drugs can improve treatment. Abused substances are categorized by similarities in their effects. However, even within the same category, each substance may have its own unique characteristics. Supportive care plays the major role for most patients, although some patients need chemical absorption, enhanced elimination, or use of specific antidotes. It is necessary for clinicians to have ability to recognize clinical signs of various abused substances in order to treat patients in emergent conditions.