Retrospective evaluation of the acute drug poisoning cases admitted to the emergency department of a tertiary care hospital

Abstract

Objectives: Poisoning is a significant global health concern, leading to higher mortality and morbidity rates. The present study aimed to assess demographic details, hospital admission patterns, laboratory findings, and applied pharmacological treatments for patients presenting to the Emergency Department with drug poisoning.

Materials and Methods: From August 5, 2020, to August 5, 2021, a cross-sectional, retrospective analysis was conducted on patients who presented to the Emergency Department of a tertiary care hospital with a drug poisoning diagnosis. Information gathered included patient demographics, the identified poisoning agent, laboratory findings, and the implemented treatment strategies.

Results: The mean age for the 584 drug poisoning cases was 30.0±10.9 years; the majority, 44.9%, were between 18-25 years old, with a female preponderance (63.0%). The most frequently implicated drug groups were anti-inflammatory/anti-rheumatic products and psychoanaleptics, each accounting for 13.7% of all identified drugs.

Conclusion: These findings suggest the need for improved awareness, monitoring, and rational use of commonly accessible medications. Strengthening regulations on over-the-counter drug availability may also help reduce poisoning incidents.