Amphetamines produce central and peripheral sympathomimetic effects. Lethal complications include severe hyperthermia, acute coronary syndrome, cardiac dysrhythmias, aortic dissection and intracranial haemorrhage. Repeated use leads to long-term neuropsychiatric sequelae. Supportive care and benzodiazepines are crucial to management.
References
- Gray SD, Fatovich DM, McCoubrie DL et al. Amphetamine related presentations to an inner city tertiary emergency department: a prospective evaluation. Medical Journal of Australia 2007; 186(7):336-339.
- Jenner L, Spain D, Whyte I et al. Management of patients with psychostimulant toxicity: guidelines for emergency departments. Canberra, Australian Government Department of Health and Ageing, May 2006. Available on-line
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