Cocaine Abuse

Description

Cocaine is a powerful stimulant with potent cardiovascular side effects. Signs of intoxication typically begin with enlarged pupils, a feeling of being "high", agitation, and increased heart rate and blood pressure. With higher doses, sweating, tremors, confusion, hyperactivity, seizures, stroke, cardiac arrhythmias (irregular heart beats), and sudden death can occur.

Symptoms

Agitation, confusion, chest pain, shortness of breath, fainting, weakness, slurred speech, coma, low blood pressure or high blood pressure, fever, seizure.

Tests

A history and physical exam will be performed. Additional tests include: blood tests, EKG, and imaging studies to rule out any cardiovascular or central nervous system damage. Work-up is dependent on the presenting symptoms.

Treatment

Treatment is dependent on the presenting symptoms. The primary goal is to protect the patient from hurting themselves and sedation. If the patient has a fever active cooling measures are needed to prevent cardiovascular collapse. For more information and help call your local poison center at 1-800-222-1222.

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