The drugs of abuse can be divided into categories based on the mechanism of action. Each drug of abuse tends to affect certain neurotransmitters in the brain, causing a specific effect, as well as a specific clinical syndrome.
If you understand the mechanism of action of each agent, you will be able to recognize and treat your patient accordingly. It is also important to recognize that many agents have withdrawal syndromes that are opposite to the intoxication syndrome and may mimic other syndromes. These are the opiates, sedatives and stimulants.
Patients abusing drugs can have implications for the safety of the rescuer as well. Studies show that many aggressive patients have positive drug or alcohol screens. [2][4]
