Determining the factors which impact management of acute poisonings due to therapeutic medicines

Abstract

Background: In a developing country such as India, intentional poisoning is associated with a high degree of morbidity and mortality. Historically, the use of agricultural poisons for attempted deliberate self-harm (DSH) has taken precedence. However, urbanization and stringent laws governing sale of agricultural chemicals, in recent years, may have shifted the focus of seekers toward commercially available therapeutic medications. Further, urbanization, high health-care seeking behavior, and poor regulation on sale of medicines, in Kerala, provide a conducive environment for such attempts.

Aims and Objectives: The objective of this study was to determine the contribution of therapeutic medication toward acute poisoning as a means of DSH and the factors contributing to the same.

Materials and Methods: Patients who obtained treatment for acute poisoning after DSH, between 2017 and 2023, were screened, those who employed therapeutic medication for the same were further determined. Sociodemographic details, clinical profile, and history of previous such attempts and treatment history including toxicological screening report were gathered and analyzed.

Results: In our study of 154 patients arriving at the emergency department with history of DSH, 41% used therapeutic medicines for the same. Majority were women (75%) and most had a high school education (64%) or above. The most common agents were determined as paracetamol (23%) and benzodiazepine (10.6%). Tox screen was performed for 45% of patients. Organ failure developed in 36% patients with drug levels above and 42% of those with levels below the therapeutic range. However, 48% of those who did not undergo toxicological screening developed organ failure. Organ failure developed in 42% of patients, with acute liver injury being the most common culprit (25%). Management was symptomatic unless an antidote was available.

Conclusion: Prescription drugs utilization for DSH was common in women and patients with higher educational status. Over-the-counter drugs and psychiatric medication were frequently used. Lack of prompt access to healthcare may contribute to organ failure. Tox-screen is recommended for drug detection.