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Drug Poisoning

Drug poisonings constitute a significant portion of emergency department admissions; early decontamination saves lives.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Acil Servis department. Book Appointment →

What is Drug Poisoning?

Drug poisoning is the toxic effect that develops as a result of high-dose, misuse, interaction, or suicidal intake of prescription, over-the-counter, or herbal products. According to WHO data, a significant portion of acute poisonings are drug-related.

The most common agents are paracetamol, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, antidepressants, benzodiazepines, opioids, and cardiovascular drugs. Symptoms range, depending on the drug and dose, from nausea and drowsiness to seizures, respiratory depression, or cardiac arrhythmias.

The approach consists of stabilization of ABC (airway, breathing, circulation), identification of the substance, decontamination (activated charcoal), administration of antidotes, and supportive care.

Symptoms

Nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain
Drowsiness or hyperarousal
Respiratory depression and bradypnea
Hypotension or hypertension
Convulsions and loss of consciousness
Pupillary changes (miosis/mydriasis)
Chest pain and cardiac arrhythmia

Risk Factors

Psychiatric illness and suicidal ideation
Polypharmacy (especially in elderly patients)
Children's access to medications
Combination of over-the-counter drugs and herbal products
Concurrent intake of alcohol with medications
Opioid use in chronic pain patients

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Call emergency services without waiting in case of high-dose drug intake
  • Always go to the emergency department in cases of suspected suicidal intake
  • Hospital evaluation is required even if asymptomatic in cases of potentially toxic dose intake
  • Do not lose time in cases of unknown drug ingestion in children

Treatment Methods

01
Stabilization of airway, breathing, and circulation
02
Activated charcoal if intake is within the last 1 hour
03
Antidotes such as N-acetylcysteine in paracetamol poisoning, naloxone in opioid poisoning
04
Dialysis for drugs that can be removed by hemodialysis
05
Intensive care monitoring and supportive treatment
06
Psychiatric consultation and poison control hotline support

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Acil Servis department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.