What type of poisoning can cause mydriasis and confusion?

Mydriasis, or dilation of the pupils, along with confusion, is commonly associated with anticholinergic poisoning, which results from exposure to anticholinergic (ACH) drugs. These substances inhibit the action of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine at muscarinic receptors, leading to symptoms such as mydriasis, confusion, dry skin, tachycardia, and fever. These effects occur because antagonism of acetylcholine disrupts the normal functioning of the autonomic nervous system.

In the context of other poisoning types, opioids typically lead to pinpoint pupils (miosis) rather than mydriasis and sedation or stupor rather than confusion. Heavy metals may result in varied neurological symptoms but are less likely to cause prominent mydriasis and confusion as primary symptoms. Alcohol can cause confusion but usually presents with a range of effects, including slurred speech and impaired coordination, rather than specific peripheral signs like mydriasis. Thus, anticholinergic drugs are the classic cause of the described symptoms, highlighting their specific effects on the nervous system and pupil response.