Prevalence and recent outcomes with psycho-stimulants intoxication in patients came to emergency department between 1399-1401

Abstract

Psychostimulants, such as amphetamines and cocaine, stimulate the central nervous system and lead to heightened confidence, euphoria, alertness, and increased energy. The abuse of these substances, especially methamphetamine, poses significant health risks including severe psychological and physical complications. Despite the growing use and associated risks, comprehensive epidemiological data in Iran is lacking. This study aims to measure the prevalence and health outcomes of psychostimulant intoxication to inform clinical specialists, emergency responders, and policymakers. Method: In this cross-sectional descriptive study conducted from 21 January 2024 to 18 June 2024 at Sina educational and medical centers in Tabriz, all patients who visited the emergency department of Sina Hospital in Tabriz due to intoxication with stimulants (crystal meth) during the years 2020 to 2022 were included in the study. Demographic data (age and gender of the patient), marital status, history of opioid, cigarette, and alcohol use, data related to vital signs (systolic and diastolic blood pressure, heart rate, respiratory rate, body temperature, and SpO2), and initial tests were extracted from the patients' records. Additionally, data related to outcomes and prognosis, including patient mortality before discharge, length of hospital or ICU stay, death, and hospital discharge against medical advice were recorded for each patient. Subsequently, the frequency of intoxication due to stimulant abuse, outcomes of stimulant abuse, and demographic factors (age, gender, marital status, etc.) were measured. Results: Among stimulant-intoxicated patients, 96% were male, and the mean age was 36.89 years. Most patients (71%) were hospitalized in general wards, and 25% were in the ICU, with 6% experiencing complications such as seizures (5%) and gastrointestinal bleeding (1%). The findings underscore the demographic and clinical characteristics of stimulant and tramadol intoxications, highlighting the need for targeted interventions. Additionally, statistical analysis shows a linear correlation between age and opioid use, indicating that at younger ages, the level of use is higher (P-value = 0.028). Furthermore, there is a linear correlation between gender and the use of both cigarettes and opioids (P-value = 0.019 and P-value = 0.014, respectively), with men having higher consumption levels.