Which symptom differentiates stimulant intoxication from depressant intoxication?

Which symptom differentiates stimulant intoxication from depressant intoxication?

• A. Tachycardia / Hypertension
• B. Respiratory depression
• C. Slurred speech
• D. Decreased LOC

Answer: (A)

The key idea is sympathetic nervous system activation versus central nervous system depression. Stimulants raise autonomic activity, so they commonly cause a fast heart rate and high blood pressure. Depressants slow CNS activity, often leading to slowed breathing, slurred speech, and a reduced level of consciousness. So tachycardia with hypertension signals stimulant intoxication, while respiratory depression, slurred speech, and decreased LOC point toward depressant effects.

The key idea is sympathetic nervous system activation versus central nervous system depression. Stimulants raise autonomic activity, so they commonly cause a fast heart rate and high blood pressure. Depressants slow CNS activity, often leading to slowed breathing, slurred speech, and a reduced level of consciousness. So tachycardia with hypertension signals stimulant intoxication, while respiratory depression, slurred speech, and decreased LOC point toward depressant effects.