Abusing drugs that have no therapeutic benefit can easily result in a drug overdose. Prescribed medications also can be abused and cause an overdose. Many drugs are addictive, although the dependency may be gradual. The results can range from mild to severe. Some may not even remember the effects of a drug overdose as memory loss is a frequent side effect.

Significance

When a drug is taken in a dose large enough to be toxic, the result is an overdose. Immediate medical attention can save the life of a person who intentionally or unintentionally took an overdose.

Considerations

Depending on the drug, combination or medication taken, symptoms will vary. Loss of consciousness, enlarged pupils, difficultly breathing, convulsions, tremors, nausea and sweating are common symptoms. A common aftereffect is memory loss.

Features

Dozens of different medications may cause memory problems; when taken in excess, these problems can be pronounced, resulting in memory loss. According to Paula Spencer, senior editor of Caring.com, antianxiety drugs and sedatives like Xanax, Valium and Halcion make the list, as do heartburn drugs such as Tagamet and Pepcid. Also included are some antidepressants and incontinence drugs such as Detrol or Ditropan.

Function

Narcotics alone or when mixed can cause extreme sedative effects. Antidepressant drugs can lower blood pressure, make the heart slow down and cause fatigue. Hallucinogenics can cause confusion and vision distortions. All can affect the thought and memory process, and result in memory loss.

Warning

A drug overdose can cause the brain to slow down or even shut down. Temporary brain damage may result, and permanent or temporary memory loss can occur.

Expert Insight

According to the American Council for Drug Education, the use of Ecstasy depletes serotonin, an important chemical in the brain. Serotonin regulates a person's mood, sleeping and eating habits, thinking, behavior, sexual ability, and reaction to pain. Long-term effects include memory loss.

Source:

Medicine PLus: Drug Overdose First Aid

Caring.com: Paula Spencer: Drugs That Cause Memory Loss

Medical Dictionary: Drug Overtdose

More Information:

American Council for Drug Education: Basic Facts About Drugs