Drug overdose
Drug Overdose
A Drug Overdose (pronounced: /drʌɡ oʊvərdoʊs/) is a medical emergency that occurs when a person ingests a drug or other substance in quantities greater than the recommended or generally recognized safe dosage.
Etymology
The term "overdose" is derived from the Middle English word "overdo", which means to do too much. The prefix "over-" is used to indicate excessiveness, and "dose" refers to a specified quantity of a therapeutic agent, such as a drug.
Definition
A drug overdose involves the ingestion, injection, or inhalation of a drug or other substance in quantities that exceed the recommended or safe amounts. This can lead to severe health consequences, including potential harm to the body's vital functions or death.
Symptoms
Symptoms of a drug overdose can vary depending on the type of drug taken, the amount ingested, and the individual's overall health status. Common symptoms may include:
- Altered mental status
- Difficulty breathing
- Unconsciousness
- Seizures
- Chest pain
- Nausea and vomiting
Treatment
Treatment for a drug overdose depends on the specific drug involved and may include one or more of the following:
- Activated charcoal to absorb the drug
- Antidote administration, if available
- Life support measures, such as artificial respiration or IV fluids
- Hospitalization for observation and further treatment
Prevention
Prevention strategies for drug overdose include:
- Education about the dangers of drug misuse and abuse
- Regular monitoring of prescription drug use
- Access to Naloxone, a medication that can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Drug overdose
- Wikipedia's article - Drug overdose
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