| Abstract |
Key points
The National Poisons Information Service provides expert advice through Toxbase http://www.toxbase.org or +44 844 892 0111. Consult them in all cases of severe poisoning.
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Resuscitate to conventional guidelines but treat arrhythmias with magnesium and bicarbonate. Anti-arrhythmics are used only after expert advice.
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Death results from hyperthermia, rhabdomyolysis, or arrhythmias; vigilance for these is crucial. Serial ECGs may predict malignant arrhythmias.
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Blood tests should always include urea, electrolytes, bone profile, liver function, paracetamol level, glucose, creatine kinase, full blood count, and clotting profile.
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Slang terms should not be used to identify drugs; this language evolves rapidly and regional variations exist.
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