Which drug toxicity is associated with hyperthermia?

The association of hyperthermia with drug toxicity is particularly notable with salicylates. Salicylate toxicity, commonly due to the ingestion of aspirin, can lead to metabolic derangements such as respiratory alkalosis, metabolic acidosis, and increased oxygen consumption, all of which can contribute to an elevated body temperature. In cases of severe salicylate toxicity, hyperthermia can arise due to the uncoupling of oxidative phosphorylation, resulting in increased heat production. Consequently, hyperthermia is a significant clinical feature that practitioners look for when assessing patients suspected of having salicylate poisoning.

While other substances, like cocaine, can also cause hyperthermia due to stimulant effects and increased metabolic rate, salicylate toxicity more classically presents with this symptom as part of its overall clinical picture.