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Drugs
are usually medicinal substances that come in a variety of forms; pills, capsules,
powders, liquids and pastes. They are chemical concoctions or refined natural products
that are used for specific purposes ranging from relieving headaches to stopping the
heart. Most are supplied under control, either by doctors' prescriptions, or by
government-controlled sale. Some, however, are illegal and pose a danger to users. Drugs are
generally classified as either: PRESCRIPTION
DRUGS,
require a doctor's authority to purchase them. They are drugs to which the relevant
government authority has given a `Schedule Number', indicating the toxicity or cautionary
usage of the substance. Most prescription drugs are at least `Schedule 4', and range up to
`Schedule 8' which are dangerous narcotic-based drugs. The associated (usually
typewritten) label, indicating that a pharmacist has dispensed them readily identifies
prescription drugs. Some common examples are; `Valium', `Normison', and `Anginine'. NON-PRESCRIPTION
DRUGS are
those which may be purchased without prescription. They consist of headache compounds,
cough elixirs, and similar mild medications, and can be purchased at virtually any chemist
or retail outlet. Common examples are; `Panadol', `Aspro', `Vick's Cough Syrup', alcohol,
and nicotine (cigarettes). ILLICIT
DRUGS are
drugs that are imported, grown or manufactured illegally. All illicit drugs are dangerous
and usually imply a degree of dependence, or in some cases, addiction. Examples are;
heroin, cocaine, amphetamines, `ecstasy', marijuana, and LSD. All
drugs, even non-prescription drugs, are dangerous when taken as an overdose. Many people
have suffered severe renal and kidney impairment from ingesting an overdose of what they
considered to be an innocuous drug. As an example, Paracetamol (`Panadol', `Panadeine') is
an excellent analgesic if taken as directed, but is particularly dangerous, even fatal, if
taken as an overdose. Using
another person's medication is also a very dangerous practice. Elderly people are at risk
of accidental overdose due to memory lapses, and unsupervised children are also potential
risks. · evidence
of empty containers, suicide notes, etc · altered
level of consciousness · slurred
speech · depressed
respirations · slow
pulse, or alternatively, rapid, weak pulse · irrational
behaviour · 'pin-point'
pupils (narcotics) · injection
(`track') marks on arms, behind knees, thighs, and groin · unconsciousness
· respiratory/cardiac
arrest · treat
as for poisoning · urgent ambulance transport · psychological support · resuscitation as required · be
aware of Hepatitis B/C and HIV The
first aid provider should be aware that care and treatment may not be restricted to the
chemical effects of drugs, but psychological disturbances and trauma are also associated
with drug abuse and overdose. Certain amphetamines and cocaine cause delusions and
behavioural problems, which can lead to self-inflicted injury or inadvertent serious
trauma. Overdosing on alcohol (drunkenness) is also an example of potentially injurious
behaviour. |
