What are symptoms of a stimulant overdose?

Symptoms of a stimulant overdose typically include agitation, extreme restlessness, and hallucinations. Stimulants, such as cocaine or amphetamines, increase the levels of neurotransmitters in the brain, leading to heightened alertness, energy, and mood elevation. However, in cases of overdose, this stimulation can become overwhelming, resulting in severe agitation and altered perceptions, including hallucinations.

In a stimulant overdose, the body's response to elevated levels of these substances can manifest in erratic behavior and psychological disturbances. This reflects the extreme impact that high doses of stimulants have on the central nervous system. Therefore, when assessing a potential stimulant overdose, agitation and hallucinations are key indicators that confirm the presence of a serious medical emergency.

Other symptoms, such as clammy skin, constricted pupils, or slowed speech, are more commonly associated with overdose from depressants or other classes of drugs, which is what distinguishes the effects of stimulants from those of different substances. Understanding these symptoms is critical for identification and prompt intervention in overdose situations.