How to Manage Clinical Presentation for Pets Exposed to Recreational Drugs
Pets may be exposed to recreational drugs that are unregulated, with unknown and/or unreliable information on concentration and purity. Consequently, the severity and length of clinical signs can be variable. Below is a list of common illicit substances that pets may be exposed to as well as the best ways to manage their clinical effects.
Methamphetamines, also known as meth, are stimulants that can cause significant cardiovascular and central nervous system (CNS) stimulation in animals. Tachycardia, hypertension, hyperthermia, agitation, and hyperactivity are common clinical signs that can develop after exposure. Treatment consists of using acepromazine and cyproheptadine to manage stimulatory signs, if needed, as well as beta blockers such as propranolol for tachycardia. Benzodiazepines are generally avoided in methamphetamine exposure as they can cause dysphoria, increase paradoxical hyperactivity, and potentially cause myocardial ischemia. If a patient’s symptoms are poorly controlled, they should be monitored for signs of disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) and rhabdomyolysis.
Marijuana, also known as weed, is a depressant that can be found in a variety of substances. Clinical signs consist of CNS depression, urinary incontinence, bradycardia, hypothermia, and hyperesthesia. Treatment is typically supportive and consists of IV fluids and thermoregulation. With severe intoxications, hypotension and coma can occur. These animals should receive intravenous lipid emulsion. Signs can last up to 72 hours after exposure.
Heroin is an opioid made from morphine. Exposure to heroin can cause CNS depression or disorientation, hypothermia, and bradycardia. Symptoms from heroin exposure can be reversed with naloxone. It may need to be repeated in 1-2 hours.
Psilocybin mushrooms contain a hallucinogenic substance that causes serotonin syndrome. The onset of clinical signs is typically within 4 hours of ingestion. Signs may consist of stimulatory effects like disorientation, hallucinations, and agitation. Cardiovascular effects such as tachycardia and hypertension are possible, and hyperthermia can also be seen. Treatment consists of acepromazine, benzodiazepines, and cyproheptadine for control of CNS signs, as well as beta blockers for persistent tachycardia. Signs can last up to 72 hours after ingestion.
Bath salts are synthetic stimulants that can cause disorientation, agitation, tachycardia, and hyperthermia. Treatment is similar to that of amphetamines and consists of acepromazine for the management of CNS signs and beta blockers for persistent tachycardia.
If you suspect that a pet has been exposed to an illicit substance but their full history is unavailable, urine drug screens are an option. Although false positives and negatives can occur, they can be a helpful diagnostic aid in conjunction with the patient’s physical exam and history. If assistance is needed in managing any toxicity cases, you can always call the ASPCA Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.
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