In a known drug overdose, clinicians commonly check serum levels of which three substances?

• A. EthanoL, Salicylate, Acetaminophen
• B. Ethanol, Salicylate, Acetaminophen
• C. Ethanol, Salicylate, Ibuprofen
• D. Ethanol, Acetaminophen, Caffeine

Answer: (B)

When evaluating an overdose, clinicians focus on substances that commonly cause severe toxicity and have clear, time‑sensitive treatments. Ethanol, acetaminophen, and salicylate are routinely checked because each has well-defined management pathways: ethanol helps gauge intoxication and potential interactions; acetaminophen levels determine the risk of liver injury and guide N‑acetylcysteine treatment based on timing and amount; salicylate levels identify poisoning with potential for serious acid–base disruption and guide specific supportive measures and detoxification steps. This trio covers common, high‑risk overdoses that require urgent, specific interventions. In contrast, ibuprofen or caffeine overdoses are less frequently part of standard initial serum screens, so they aren’t the best trio to rely on for routine overdose evaluation.