Which of the following are signs/symptoms of stimulant (cocaine) intoxication?

• A. Decreased vitals, calmness, reduced pulse
• B. Nausea and vomiting only
• C. Increased vitals, increased energy, increased paranoia, decreased appetite
• D. Sedation and miosis

Answer: (C)

Stimulant intoxication triggers sympathetic nervous system activation, driven by increased monoamines in the brain. Cocaine blocks reuptake of norepinephrine, dopamine, and serotonin, leading to higher heart rate and blood pressure, faster breathing, and alert, energized behavior. Appetite tends to drop, and paranoid thoughts or suspiciousness can occur with stronger stimulation. This combination—rising vitals, more energy, paranoia, and decreased appetite—best fits the pattern of cocaine intoxication.

The other choices don’t fit because they reflect effects more typical of depressants or other drug actions: decreased vital signs with calmness isn’t a stimulant effect; nausea and vomiting alone don’t capture the arousal and behavioral changes; sedation and pinpoint pupils are characteristic of sedatives or opioids, not stimulants.