Drug Categories & Effects Flashcards

Which drug category is the ONLY one of the seven associated with lack of convergence as the primary eye examination finding?

Answer: Cannabis

Cannabis reliably causes lack of convergence, making this finding the most specific eye sign for that drug category.

A subject under the influence of a CNS Stimulant would most likely exhibit which combination of findings?

Answer: Dilated pupils, rapid pulse, dry mouth

CNS Stimulants produce dilated pupils, tachycardia, hypertension, and dry mouth due to sympathomimetic activity.

In the DRE protocol, which category of drugs is most associated with horizontal gaze nystagmus (HGN) AND vertical gaze nystagmus (VGN)?

Answer: Dissociative Anesthetics

Dissociative Anesthetics (PCP, ketamine) uniquely cause HGN, VGN, and nystagmus at maximum deviation on all four planes of gaze.

Heroin, fentanyl, and oxycodone all belong to which DRE drug category?

Answer: Narcotic Analgesics

All opioid-based pain relievers — natural, synthetic, or semi-synthetic — are classified as Narcotic Analgesics in the DRE system.

Which drug category is most likely when a DRE finds a subject with a body temperature of 97°F (below normal), slow respiration, and a pulse rate of 58 bpm?

Answer: Narcotic Analgesics

Narcotic Analgesics depress respiration, slow pulse, and lower body temperature, producing the classic opioid toxidrome.

MDMA (ecstasy/molly) is classified under which DRE drug category for evaluation purposes?

Answer: CNS Stimulants

MDMA is categorized as a CNS Stimulant in the DRE framework because it predominantly produces stimulant vital-sign indicators such as elevated pulse and dilated pupils.

Which of the following is an example of an Inhalant as defined in the DRE drug categories?

Answer: Nitrous oxide

Nitrous oxide is inhaled directly and classified as an Inhalant; it produces euphoria, dizziness, and brief CNS depression.