Drugs are
usually medicinal substances that come in a variety of forms;
pills, capsules, powders, liquids and pastes. They are chemical
concoctions or refined natural products that are used for
specific purposes ranging from relieving headaches to stopping
the heart. Most are supplied under control, either by doctors'
prescriptions, or by government-controlled sale. Some, however,
are illegal and pose a danger to users.
Drugs are generally classified as
either:
PRESCRIPTION
DRUGS, require a doctor's authority to purchase them.
They are drugs to which the relevant government authority has
given a `Schedule Number', indicating the toxicity or cautionary
usage of the substance. Most prescription drugs are at least
`Schedule 4', and range up to `Schedule 8' which are dangerous
narcotic-based drugs. The associated (usually typewritten)
label, indicating that a pharmacist has dispensed them readily
identifies prescription drugs. Some common examples are;
`Valium', `Normison', and `Anginine'.
NON-PRESCRIPTION DRUGS are those which may be
purchased without prescription. They consist of headache
compounds, cough elixirs, and similar mild medications, and can
be purchased at virtually any chemist or retail outlet. Common
examples are; `Panadol', `Aspro', `Vick's Cough Syrup', alcohol,
and nicotine (cigarettes).
ILLICIT
DRUGS are drugs that are imported, grown or
manufactured illegally. All illicit drugs are dangerous and
usually imply a degree of dependence, or in some cases,
addiction. Examples are; heroin, cocaine, amphetamines,
`ecstasy', marijuana, and LSD.
All drugs, even non-prescription
drugs, are dangerous when taken as an overdose. Many people have
suffered severe renal and kidney impairment from ingesting an
overdose of what they considered to be an innocuous drug. As an
example, Paracetamol (`Panadol', `Panadeine') is an excellent
analgesic if taken as directed, but is particularly dangerous,
even fatal, if taken as an overdose.
Using another person's medication
is also a very dangerous practice. Elderly people are at risk of
accidental overdose due to memory lapses, and unsupervised
children are also potential risks.
SIGNS AND
SYMPTOMS
-
evidence of empty containers,
suicide notes, etc
-
altered level of consciousness
-
slurred speech
-
depressed respirations
-
slow pulse, or alternatively,
rapid, weak pulse
-
irrational behavior
-
'pin-point' pupils (narcotics)
-
injection (`track') marks on
arms, behind knees, thighs, and groin
-
unconsciousness
-
respiratory/cardiac arrest
CARE AND
TREATMENT
-
treat as for poisoning
-
urgent ambulance transport
-
psychological support
-
resuscitation as required
-
be aware of Hepatitis B/C and HIV
The first aid provider should be
aware that care and treatment may not be restricted to the
chemical effects of drugs, but psychological disturbances and
trauma are also associated with drug abuse and overdose. Certain
amphetamines and cocaine cause delusions and behavioral
problems, which can lead to self-inflicted injury or inadvertent
serious trauma. Overdosing on alcohol (drunkenness) is also an
example of potentially injurious behavior.
