Substance intoxication

From Food & Medicine Encyclopedia


Substance intoxication
Synonyms Acute intoxication
Pronounce N/A
Specialty N/A
Symptoms Euphoria, dysphoria, impaired judgment, impaired motor coordination, slurred speech, nystagmus, memory impairment
Complications Accidents, injuries, violence, overdose
Onset Immediate to a few hours after substance use
Duration Hours to days, depending on the substance
Types Alcohol intoxication, cannabis intoxication, opioid intoxication, stimulant intoxication, hallucinogen intoxication
Causes Use of psychoactive substances
Risks Substance use disorder, mental health disorders, legal issues
Diagnosis Clinical assessment, toxicology screen
Differential diagnosis Substance withdrawal, psychiatric disorders, neurological disorders
Prevention Avoidance of substance use, harm reduction strategies
Treatment Supportive care, detoxification, psychotherapy, medications
Medication N/A
Prognosis Varies depending on substance and severity
Frequency Common
Deaths N/A


Substance Intoxication is a type of Substance-related disorder that involves a maladaptive pattern of substance use leading to clinically significant impairment or distress. It is characterized by a reversible substance-specific syndrome due to recent ingestion of (or exposure to) a substance.

Symptoms[edit]

Symptoms of substance intoxication vary greatly depending on the type of substance and the amount used. They can range from mild effects such as mood changes to severe effects such as unconsciousness or death. Common symptoms include:

  • Changes in mood
  • Impaired judgment
  • Physical impairment such as difficulty walking or slurred speech
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Hallucinations or delusions in severe cases

Causes[edit]

Substance intoxication is caused by the use of a substance in a manner or amount that is harmful to the individual or others. The most common substances associated with substance intoxication are:

Treatment[edit]

Treatment for substance intoxication typically involves supportive care and treatments to manage symptoms. In some cases, medications may be used to help manage withdrawal symptoms, reduce cravings, and prevent relapse.

See Also[edit]

References[edit]

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