Evaluating hallucinogenic or psychedelic drug intoxication in an emergencysetting

Under certain conditions or in an overdose setting, several classes of drug s can induce illusions, hallucinations, or delusions. However, one of the h allmark features of hallucinogens or psychedelic agents is their ability to induce states of altered or distorted perception, thought, and mood. Many hallucinogens produce classic sympathomimetic effects; that is hyperactivit y mydriasis (dilated pupils), hypertension, tachycardia, and hyperthermia. However, the effects vary considerably, depending upon the hallucinogen ing ested. Qualitative confirmation by the laboratory that the patient is suffe ring front hallucinogen intoxication such as marijuana use can be helpful t o the clinician. However, the common toxicologic drug screens used by most clinical laboratories no not detect many hallucinogenic agents (such as LSD [lysergic acid diethylamide]). Thus, diagnosis of hallucinogen ingestion a nd treatment is often based on history of use and physical examination.