Evaluating Hallucinogenic or Psychedelic Drug Intoxication in an Emergency Setting
July 1, 2000 Robert H. Williams, T. Erickson
Hallucinogens and psychedelic agents can induce altered perception, thought, and mood. Many produce sympathomimetic effects like hyperactivity, dilated pupils, hypertension, rapid heartbeat, and high body temperature, though effects vary by drug. Common toxicologic drug screens do not detect many hallucinogens, such as LSD, making diagnosis reliant on patient history and physical examination rather than lab tests.