Acute propoxyphene self-poisoning in 222 consecutive patients

The course of severe propoxyphene self-poisoning in 222 consecutive patients is presented. On admission, 73% of the patients had neurological symptoms, 10% had convulsions, 45% were in respiratory failure, and impaired circulation was present in 48%. A mortality rate of 8% was observed. Twelve patients arrived in asystole of whom six were resuscitated without sequelae. The overdose was accidental in 13 patients, one of whom died. Early medical intensive care was found mandatory for a good prognosis. Before discharge from the ICU we recommend an observation-period free of cardiovascular symptoms for 24 h.