Barbiturate Abuse (cont.)

OTC and Prescription Drug Abuse Slideshow Pictures

Health Risks of Alcohol Abuse Slideshow Pictures

Medical Author:

J Dave Barry, MD

Coauthor:

Christopher B Beach, MD

Medical Editor:

Scott H Plantz, MD, FAAEM

Medical Editor:

Francisco Talavera, PharmD, PhD

Medical Editor:

Anthony Anker, MD, FAAEM

Exams and Tests

A urine test can readily identify barbiturate use. Diagnosis in a hospital emergency department, however, concentrates on diagnosing other potential reasons for the person to be drowsy, such as other drugs taken, head injury, stroke, infection, or shock. These diagnostic efforts take place while the person is being treated.

In general, the person will have an IV started and blood will be drawn. An ECG (electrocardiogram) will be performed to evaluate the person's heart. Other diagnostic efforts depend on the specific situation.

Barbiturate Abuse Treatment»

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