Which signs are associated with hallucinogen use?

• A. Vitals go up; Dazed appearance, body tremors, paranoid; Pupil dilation
• B. Vitals go down; Sleepiness; Pinpoint pupils
• C. Vitals go up; Aggressive behavior; Miosis
• D. Vitals go down; Calm and clear thinking; Normal pupils

Answer: (A)

Hallucinogens typically stimulate the sympathetic nervous system, leading to increased heart rate and blood pressure, faster breathing, sweating, and dilated pupils. People under their influence may appear dazed or trance-like, with tremors and paranoid or distorted perceptions. The combination described—vital signs rising, dazed appearance with tremors, paranoia, and pupil dilation—best fits that pattern of intoxication, making it the correct choice.

Other options describe signs that don’t match hallucinogen use. Decreased vital signs with sleepiness and pinpoint pupils point to opioids or other depressants. Increased vital signs with pinpoint pupils wouldn’t fit hallucinogens, since pupil constriction isn’t typical and agitation isn’t guaranteed. Decreased vital signs with calm, clear thinking and normal pupils likewise don’t align with the usual presentation of hallucinogen intoxication.