THE CLINICAL PROFILE AND PHARMACOTHERAPY OF POISONING CASES IN A TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES To assess the clinical profile and pharmacotherapy of poisoning cases in a tertiary care hospital. MATERIALS AND METHODS A prospective study conducted in inpatients of the Department of Medicine, Government Rajaji Hospital , Madurai over a period of 6 months. A total of 104 cases were analyzed. RESULTS The prevalence of poisoning was more common in the age group of 15 to 45 years. Poisoning incidence was more common in males (77 percent) , (80 cases). All poisons were consumed with suicidal intention. Pesticides were the most common poison consumed (74 percent) ,(77 cases) followed by plant poisons (16 percent), (17 cases). Organophosphorus compounds were the most common pesticide consumed (95 percent), (74 cases). The mortality due to organophosphorus was significantly lower (p value less than 0.03). The incidence of respiratory failure was significantly higher in organophosphorus poisoning (28 cases), (p value less than 0.001). The development of renal failure was significantly higher in supervasmol and Copper sulphate poisoning (12 cases), (p value less than 0.009). The median delay from time of consumption to the time of admission and treatment was 3 hours. Patients admitted with time interval of more than 3 hours had significant mortality rates (13 cases), (p value less than 0.017) and requirement of organ support (28 cases), (p value less than 0.01).All cases were managed with appropriate pharmacotherapy. CONCLUSION Since pesticides were the most common poison consumed and had significant delayed complications, a follow up becomes mandatory. Since the time lag had significant effects on mortality and outcomes, appropriate pharmacotherapy when instituted without delay can save many lives.