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Poisoning in children

J Kolár1, V Foltán, V Springer

  • 1Department of the Organization and Management of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Comenius University, Bratislava, Slovakia.

Pharmacy World & Science : PWS
|October 15, 1993
PubMed

Insights

Drug-induced poisoning in children is a significant health issue. This study found that nearly half of all childhood poisoning hospitalizations were caused by medications.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Medicine
  • Toxicology
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Drug-induced poisoning in children is a critical medical and social concern.
  • Effective prevention and therapeutic strategies are essential.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To analyze the incidence and identify the causative agents of drug poisoning in children.
  • To understand the scope of drug poisoning within pediatric hospitalizations.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective analysis of pediatric hospitalizations over a two-year period (1985-1986).
  • Inclusion criteria: children under 15 years old hospitalized for poisoning.
  • Data collection focused on poisoning cases and their drug-related causes.

Main Results:

  • Poisoning cases accounted for 1.7% of all pediatric hospitalizations.
  • A significant proportion, 49%, of these poisoning cases were drug-induced.
  • Identified specific drugs and drug classes responsible for pediatric poisonings.

Conclusions:

  • Drug-induced poisoning is a major contributor to pediatric hospitalizations.
  • Further research into specific drug risks and targeted prevention programs is warranted.
  • Highlights the need for enhanced medication safety measures for children.

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