[Designer-drug overdose patients treated by Helsinki Emergency Medical Services in 2009-2012]

Designer drug abuse has increased during the last decade.

Retrospective study of designer drug overdoses in Helsinki emergency medical services (EMS) 2009-2012. Use of drugs was self-reported or from other people present.

There were 98 patients (72% male), median age 30 years. The majority reported MDPV and polysubstance abuse. Only 15% were administered medication by EMS and 69 were transported. In the emergency department 53% required specific care, mostly benzodiazepines. Most (78%) were discharged within less than 24 hours. Infectious complications were the main reason for admission.

Designer drug overdose patients require drug administration rarely on scene, but quite often in the emergency department, usually sedation. Admissions are rare.