Emergency management of cocaine intoxication. Counteracting the effects of today's 'favorite drug'

The toxic effects of cocaine are becoming more widely recognized as the popularity of the drug increases. Although overdose is usually fatal, treatment is available for users who experience agitation, seizure, arrhythmias, severe hypertension, or other side effects. Hospital admission is often necessary to allow monitoring of the acute situation. Initial management involves standard life-support measures. Therapeutic agents are given, as appropriate, both to control acute reactions and to counteract continuing toxicity.