Thermoregulation and Body Fluids · USMLE Step 1

A patient becomes hyperthermic after taking MDMA. Which mechanism is most responsible for the excessive heat production?

  1. Excessive sweating response
  2. Sympathetic overactivation
  3. Peripheral vasodilation
  4. Reduced metabolic rate
Show answer and explanation

Correct answer: Sympathetic overactivation

MDMA causes massive sympathetic activation and hypermetabolism, greatly increasing heat production. This can overwhelm heat loss mechanisms.

Difficulty: Medium Question 18 of 20

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