American College of Medical Toxicology to Present Hazards of Hedonism, Vanity, and Vice

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American College of Medical Toxicology

Medical toxicologists around the world often care for people suffering severe consequences from misguided attempts to maintain or regain a youthful appearance.

Phoenix, Arizona (PRWEB) July 31, 2012

The pursuit of elevated energy, eternal youth, and an ideal of beauty has lead to increased demand for products that may help individuals achieve these goals. In response to demand, the number and variety of medications, procedures, and other products available to consumers continues to increase, with many of these untested or of unproven efficacy. In order to provide health care professionals with the latest information on toxicological risks posed by many of these products, the American College of Medical Toxicology will host “Vanity and Vice: Toxicology in the Sin City” on October 1st in Las Vegas at the North American Congress of Clinical Toxicology. This educational symposium will examine a myriad of health hazards associated with medications and procedures used to enhance physical appearance and athletic and sexual performance. Scientific review of illness associated with breast implants, risks of high-dose anesthetics used during surgical procedures, potential for harm following the use of botulinum toxin, and the dangers of anabolic steroid use are some of the topics that will be covered. Leaders in the specialty of medical toxicology will discuss the potential complications and adverse effects as well as describe the treatment approaches when undesired health effects occur.

The session will explore in depth the history and toxicology of celebrity drug overdoses, opioid addiction, adolescent drug detoxification units, and the neurochemistry behind addictions. Evolving treatment options for substance abuse will be examined. The day will conclude with a panel discussion on potential methods of harm reduction in opioid overdose including dispensing naloxone to non-medical personnel and Good Samaritan legislation.

Michele Burns, M.D., the chair of the ACMT Education Committee, states “Medical toxicologists around the world often care for people suffering severe consequences from misguided attempts to maintain or regain a youthful appearance and energy level.“ According to Lewis Nelson, MD, President of ACMT and a member of the Opioid Overdose Prevention Panel featured during this symposium, “Intensive education is needed to raise both public and professional awareness of the potential harms that may result from questionably safe health practices, particularly when provided outside of traditional health care settings.”

The American College of Medical Toxicology (ACMT) is a professional, nonprofit association of physicians with recognized expertise in medical toxicology. The College is dedicated to advancing the science and practice of medical toxicology.

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