Designer Drug of Abuse

Designer drugs of abuse represent a major health risk to who use them. The toxic effect of these agents are very dangerous when they are correctly identified, but they are especially dangerous because they are often misidentified by derivatives and phencyclidine derivatives. Amphetamine derivatives such as MDMA and MDA can cause fatal sequelae including hyperthermia, hypertension, and seizurers. No specific antidote exists for these agents. Therefore, their widespread use in certain areas is a major concern. The opiate derivatives MPPP, MPTP and fentanyl analogoues produce a wide range of toxic effects. These agents are much more potent than heroin, and are sometimes sold as heroin unknowingly to the user. The results have been catastrophic, with many fatalities. Arylhexylamines such as phencyclidine and ketamine are becoming more popular as agents of abuse. These drug may result in fatal toxicity resulting from cardiac arrest, hypertensive emergency, or status epilepticus. Familiarity with the signs and symptoms of toxicity from the designer drug will expedite the care of these patients.