These are the symptoms of drug poisoning or overdose

Through the PrevenIMSS program, Social Security offers information on the risks associated with substance use, in order to raise awareness about its negative effects on health.

When a person who has consumed cocaine shows signs and symptoms of intoxication or overdose, such as extreme agitation, chest pain, mental confusion, irregular breathing, loss of consciousness , it is crucial to go immediately to the emergency room to receive timely medical attention, which can save lives and prevent complications, reported the Mexican Social Security Institute (IMSS).

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Dr. Pedro Hiram Saldívar Barreto, Coordinator of Medical Programs at the Mental Health and Addictions Coordination Office, highlighted that, through the PrevenIMSS program, the Institute carries out promotional and preventive actions to alert people to the harmful effects of substance use and promote a healthy lifestyle, in line with the ongoing national preventive campaign against addiction by the government of Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo.

He noted that cocaine is a highly addictive stimulant that can be consumed by smoking, snorting, or injecting . When combined with other substances, such as alcohol, methamphetamines, fentanyl, or heroin, the health risks increase significantly, and in some cases, can be fatal .

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He emphasized the importance of being alert to signs and symptoms of poisoning or overdose. "The IMSS Emergency Department in hospital medical units provides care to people with cocaine poisoning, with the goal of stabilizing the patient, assessing vital signs, and ensuring adequate airway, circulation, and ventilation. In addition, Medications are given to treat acute symptoms such as psychomotor agitation, psychosis, seizures, arrhythmias or alterations in the state of consciousness” .

The specialist commented that Prolonged and excessive cocaine use can cause serious health problems, such as cardiovascular, liver or kidney damage, and mental health problems such as depression, anxiety or psychosis. , and behavioral changes focused on satisfying the need to consume. This can lead to an increase in the quantity and frequency of consumption and even failed attempts to quit the substance, creating a pattern of physical and/or psychological dependence.

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Dr. Saldívar Barreto emphasized that if cocaine use is detected in a person, they should go to their Family Medicine Unit (FMU), where doctors will evaluate the situation and provide appropriate management , or refer them to specialized mental health services.

“It's important to let family members know that their support is crucial, as cocaine use affects not only the user but also those close to them. To provide effective and healthy support, it's important to educate yourself about the substance your loved one is using, encourage open, empathetic, and judgment-free communication, and take care of their mental health,” she said.

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He emphasized that Social Security has staff who are constantly updated in the management of mental health and substance use issues through the mhGAP Intervention Guide, a tool based on scientific evidence that allows for the early identification of cases, warning signs, and consumption patterns. It also promotes skills for conducting brief interventions, using a protocol aligned with international best practices to ensure an ethical, effective, and culturally appropriate approach.

Substance abusers can contact the IMSS Telephone Counseling Service at 800-2222-668, option 4. From Monday to Sunday, from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., they can provide crisis counseling and information on referral medical units and next steps.

With information from the IMSS

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