Hyperthermia is the elevation of core body temperature above 38°C secondary to a hypermetabolic state [excessive heat production] +/- impaired heat dissipation which is most commonly due to environmental exposure [heat stress/stroke] and/or drugs.
Some of the more common illicit substances which can precipitate hyperthermia include:
Patients with elevated temperature following illicit substance use are at high risk of serious pathology and death. Early recognition and urgent targeted management of hyperthermia in these patients can prevent rapid progression to multi-organ failure and cardiac arrest.