[Emergency situations in drug addicts. Classification, diagnostic and therapeutic measures]

In drug addicts emergency situations can occur which differ only slightly in symptoms but require different therapeutic measures, depending on type of the drug and symptomatology. Diagnostic and therapeutical difficulties in emergency situations, especially the not unfrequent late complications and the considerable danger of suicidal actions require in general the immediate hospitalization. Intensive care and surveillance are necessary. The adequate therapy of ventilatory and circulatory functions is of great importance and should be started by the first consulted physician before transport to the hospital.