narcotic poisoning
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Related to narcotic poisoning: opiate poisoning
narcotic poisoning
Etymology: Gk, narkotikos, be numbing; L, potio, drink
the toxic effects of a narcotic drug that depresses the brain centers, causing unconsciousness or coma. Narcotic drugs are generally derived from opium, but other drugs, including alcohol, can produce similar effects.
narcotic poisoning
Poisoning caused by narcotic or sleep-producing drugs such as opium and its derivatives.
Symptoms
The patient may experience brief exhilaration followed by drowsiness, respiratory depression, or coma, or, in massive overdoses, death.
Treatment
An airway should be established and ventilation provided. A narcotic antagonist such as naloxone should be given.
See also: poisoning