Amphétamine intoxication delirium is a condition in which an individual experiences delirium as a result of over-exposure to amphetamines. Amphetamines are stimulant drugs that are commonly used to treat attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy. Although they can be effective in treating these conditions, amphetamines can be abused, leading to extreme psychological and physical symptoms. This article will explore the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of this condition.
Causes
Amphétamine intoxication delirium is primarily caused by the over-exposure to amphetamines. This can be due to intentional abuse of the drug, or accidental over-exposure due to incorrect dosing. In addition, individuals with certain pre-existing medical conditions, such as diabetes and high blood pressure, may be at higher risk of developing this condition because of their increased sensitivity to the drug’s effects.
Symptoms
The symptoms of amphetamines intoxication delirium may vary depending on the severity of the intoxication. Generally, individuals will experience extreme agitation, confusion, hallucinations, and delusions. They may also experience restlessness, hyperactivity, and speech disturbances. In severe cases, they may also experience seizures and even coma.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of amphetamines intoxication delirium is made based on the individual’s medical history, physical examination, and laboratory tests. Blood and urine tests may be used to detect the presence of amphetamines in the system. Additionally, a mental health evaluation may be conducted to rule out other conditions such as psychosis or bipolar disorder.
Treatment
The treatment of amphetamines intoxication delirium typically includes supportive care and benzodiazepines to help reduce the symptoms. In severe cases, the individual may need to be hospitalized in order to stabilize their condition. If the individual is found to have a pre-existing medical condition which may have contributed to the intoxication, this should be treated as well. Additionally, psychological and behavioral interventions may be recommended to help the individual manage their addiction and reduce the risk of future episodes.
Conclusion
Amphétamine intoxication delirium is a potentially serious condition that can result from over-exposure to amphetamines. It is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of this condition so that it can be diagnosed and treated promptly. With proper treatment, individuals can recover and return to their usual activities.
References
American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.). Arlington, VA: American Psychiatric Publishing.
McCabe, S. E., & Teter, C. J. (2006). Medical consequences of amphetamine and methamphetamine abuse. Neuropsychopharmacology, 31(3), 434-441.
Meyer, J. R., & Quenzer, L. F. (2005). Psychopharmacology: drugs, the brain, and behavior (2nd ed.). Sunderland, MA: Sinauer Associates.
Reuben, A., & Herrmann, N. (2008). Delirium. New England Journal of Medicine, 358(11), 1162-1174.
Stein, D. J., & Baldwin, D. S. (2012). Amphetamine-type stimulant use disorders. Lancet, 379(9818), 966-977.