For an amphetamine overdose within one hour, which agent is advised?

• A. Activated charcoal
• B. Naloxone
• C. Flumazenil
• D. Diazepam

Answer: (A)

When a patient presents with an oral amphetamine overdose within about an hour of ingestion, decontamination with activated charcoal is the preferred step. Activated charcoal binds the drug in the gastrointestinal tract, reducing its absorption into the bloodstream and lowering the peak and overall exposure. This can meaningfully blunt the toxic effects if given within that short window, provided the patient can protect their airway or has an airway protective measure in place to prevent aspiration.

Opioid overdose would be treated with naloxone, not helpful for amphetamine toxicity. Flumazenil targets benzodiazepine overdose and is not indicated for stimulant toxicity and can increase risk in some cases. Diazepam is a benzodiazepine and does not address absorption of the amphetamine; it may be used symptomatically for agitation but is not the antidote or primary decontamination for this scenario.