“Big 5” USMLE toxidromes

FeatureAnticholinergicCholinergicSympathomimeticOpioidSedative-Hypnotic
Vitals↑HR, ↑Temp↓HR, ↓BP↑HR, ↑BP, ↑Temp↓RR, ↓BP↓RR, ↓BP
PupilsMydriasisMiosisMydriasisMiosisNormal
SkinDRY, FlushedWETWETNormalNormal
Mental StatusAgitated deliriumConfusedAgitated, ParanoidObtundedObtunded
UniqueUrinary retention, IleusDUMBBELSS, FasciculationsSeizures↓↓Resp depressionHyporeflexia
CausesAntihistamines, TCAs, AtropineOrganophosphates, CarbamatesCocaine, AmphetaminesHeroin, FentanylBZDs, Barbiturates, EtOH
AntidotePhysostigmineAtropine + 2-PAMBZDs (supportive)NaloxoneFlumazenil (caution)