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Slovenska pediatrija 2013; 20: 37-44

https://doi.org/

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Review article

CHILD POISONING WITH DRUGS AND PRESENTATION OF TESTS

N. Fujs
Služba za urgentno pediatrijo, Pediatrična klinika, Univerzitetni klinični center Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenija

Abstract

A drug is a compound that can modify the thoughts, emotional state and behaviour of the user because of its ingredients and substances. Drug use is increasing among young people, especially during adolescence, mainly due to their frequent experimentation, curiosity and showing off. In this period, the adolescent often consciously decides to take the drug. The most common illicit drugs used by young people are: cannabis, cocaine, different synthetic drugs: amphetamines and methamphetamines (ecstasy, LSD), heroin and gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB). People who use psychoactive substances most often seek medical attention because of anxiety, rapid heartbeat and chest tightness and pain. The most common reason for urgent medical treatment among patients using psychoactive substances is combined drug and alcohol poisoning. The clinical picture depends on the type of administered PAS. Treatment of poisoning with illicit drugs is symptomatic. An antidote is available only for heroin. The presence of THC was most frequently confirmed by quick drug screen urine tests.

Key words: drug, adolescent, poisoning.