Overall, treatment of psychostimulant toxicity should involve prompt supportive care and judicious use of specific agents. Good management relies upon early recognition and the initiation of supportive care in the emergency department. Unfortunately, some individuals avoid or delay seeking emergency care due to fears about negative legal ramifications associated with use of an illicit substance. It is important to seek emergency care when any of the following symptoms are present:
- chest pain;
- rapidly increasing body temperature;
- psychotic features (hallucinations, severe paranoia, delusions or thought disorder);
- behavioural disturbance to the extent that the individual may be at risk to themselves or others;
- seizures; and
- uncontrolled hypertension.