Patrick has just been brought into the emergency room. He is exhibiting a great deal of agitation and hyperalertness. On examining him it was found that his condition was the direct result of a psychoactive substance that has an activating effect on the central nervous system. Which of the following substances is Patrick most likely to have ingested?
A) Disulfiram
B) Alcohol
C) Naltrexone
D) Cocaine

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The symptoms of agitation and hyperalertness are characteristic of stimulant drugs such as cocaine, which have activating effects on the central nervous system. Disulfiram is used in the treatment of alcohol dependence by inhibiting the enzyme that breaks down alcohol, leading to unpleasant side effects if alcohol is consumed. Naltrexone is also used in the treatment of alcohol dependence by blocking the effects of alcohol in the brain. However, neither of these substances would cause the symptoms described in the scenario. Alcohol itself can cause agitation and hyperalertness, but the scenario specifies that the substance in question has an activating effect on the central nervous system, which is more characteristic of stimulants like cocaine.

Patrick Has Just Been Brought into the Emergency Room