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Toxicology of Psychoactive Substances
Lara Prisco1, Aarti Sarwal2, Mario Ganau3
1Neurosciences Intensive Care Unit, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, John Radcliffe Hospital, Level 1 West Wing, Headley Way, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK; Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, John Radcliffe Hospital, Level 6 West Wing, Headley Way, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK.
Critical Care Clinics
|May 31, 2021
Summary
The use of prescription psychoactive drugs (PADs) and new psychoactive substances (NPSs) is rising globally. Critical care providers must understand the toxicology of these substances to manage overdoses and interactions effectively.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Toxicology
- Critical Care Medicine
Background:
- Global increase in the use of prescription psychoactive drugs (PADs), including antidepressants, antipsychotics, and mood stabilizers.
- Rising production and consumption of illicit PADs and emergence of novel psychoactive substances (NPSs) worldwide.
- PADs present unique challenges in critical care due to potential drug interactions, adverse effects, and overdoses.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize the toxicologic features of commonly used and abused PADs.
- To provide critical care providers with essential information on managing PAD-related toxicology.
- To cover a range of substances including antidepressants, antipsychotics, mood stabilizers, hallucinogens, NPSs, caffeine, nicotine, and cannabis.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and synthesis of toxicologic data.
- Focus on commonly encountered PADs and NPSs in clinical settings.
- Compilation of information on drug interactions, side effects, and overdose management.
Main Results:
- Detailed toxicologic profiles of various PADs and NPSs are presented.
- Commonly abused substances and their specific risks are highlighted.
- Information is organized for quick reference by critical care professionals.
Conclusions:
- Understanding the toxicology of PADs and NPSs is crucial for effective critical care.
- This summary serves as a resource for managing patients with psychoactive substance-related issues.
- Awareness of emerging NPSs is vital for addressing evolving toxicology challenges.
Keywords:
AntidepressantsHallucinogensMood stabilizersPsychoactive substancesSelective serotonin reuptake inhibitorsantipsychoticsMore Related Videos
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