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Methamphetamines (Crystal Meth) Toxicity 

 

 

Considerations

 

  • Multi-system effects of acute abuse:

    • CNS: possible ↑ ICP, seizures, uncooperative, ↑ MAC

    • Cardiovascular: hypertension, tachycardia, cardiac dysrhythmias, acute coronary syndromes, cardiovascular collapse (due to dehydration, neurotransmitter depletion, metabolic acidosis) 

    • Metabolic: hyperthermia, malnutrition, metabolic acidosis, rhadbomyolysis,

  • Chronic amphetamine abuse:

    • ↓ MAC & refractory hypotension (depletion of catecholamine stores) 

    • Physiologic dependence

    • Withdrawal management

  • Need for universal precautions

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