amphetamine poisoning, the toxic effects of overdosage of drugs classified as amphetamines, including overdose or abuse of prescription medications and those manufactured synthetically in illegal laboratories. ▪ OBSERVATIONS: Symptoms vary based on the amount, purity, and potency of the drug. They may include excitement, hyperthermia, tremors, tachycardia, hallucinations, delirium, seizures, and circulatory collapse. ▪ INTERVENTIONS: Treatment is symptomatic and ranges from observation and sedation to management of circulatory collapse. Orogastric lavage with activated charcoal may be performed. Patients with severe hyperthermia associated with psychomotor agitation require immediate measures to rapidly decrease temperature to prevent multiorgan failure and death. Great care must be taken with the administration and titration of medications to manage symptoms. Physical restraint should be avoided if possible. ▪ PATIENT CARE CONSIDERATIONS: There is a high potential for abuse with amphetamines. Each member of the health care team should recognize the importance of behavioral counseling and therapy for individuals with an amphetamine addiction.
