Best way to learn substance abuse Signs/Sx?

[mq123]

---

Members don't see this ad.

I always have trouble recognizing and remembering the substance abuse and withdrawal symptoms and signs (except for the big ones like alcohol). Is there any way to keep them all straight and not confuse myself?

 

[dnslay]

Wasn't college enough?

 

[anumama]

theres only one way to find out... empty your loans and go on a drug binge!! nothing better than personal experience 🙂

haha all kidding aside though, if you know the effects of the drug, the withdrawal is usually the opposite of it. for example, EtOH mellows you out by activating GABA receptors (inhibition), so when u stop drinking you start to freak out ("activation" symptoms - DTs, high blood pressure, tachy).

 

[Domenech]

Well you got to learn the classic signs and symptoms because that seriously helps a lot. Those are written in both Kaplan and First Aid and you might want to check them out and learn them.

For example, if you see nystagmus and belligerence = pick PCP. Rhinorrhoea, Salivation, cramps = Opioid withdrawal. Strong visual flashbacks = LSD. Conjunctival injection (reddening) = Tetrahydrocannabinol.

Just make a list of these classic clues. On Step1, I think most of the questions actually come out with these clues.

 

[babsco]

You should watch cops.