Title: Analyzing the Reports of Chemical Poisoning and Pharmacological Toxicity in Cases Presented to the Poison Centre in Basra City, Iraq
Authors: Ali M. Al-Rawaq
Volume: 9
Issue: 7
Pages: 10-19
Publication Date: 2025/07/28
Abstract:
Background: Poisoning is a leading cause of illness and death worldwide; in underdeveloped nations in particular, people often end up in emergency rooms due to symptoms of acute poisoning. Aim of the study: To evaluate the incidence of poisoning from drugs, chemicals, and household products, and to examine the determinants, conditions, and outcomes for intoxicated patients over a three-year period utilizing data from a Poison Control Centre in Basra, Iraq. Methods: The research is a retrospective investigation of acutely poisoned patients admitted to several hospitals in Basra City over a three-year period (2020, 2021, as well as 2022). Results: The analysis found that there was a total of 244 cases of poisoning. Half of all cases were children, who are the most at-risk age group. There were more males (125) than females (119). Drugs were the most common cause of poisoning, with 171 cases. In 2020, 2021, and 2022, centrally acting sedative/hypnotics (Benzodiazepines) were the most prevalent drugs used (18%, 29.5%, and 23%, respectively). The second agent, paracetamol analgesic, is 15%, 18%, and 18.5% of the total. In 2020 and 2021, pesticides (insecticides and rodenticides) were the most common poisons that weren't drugs, with 48% and 66%, respectively. Sulphur dioxide gas was the most common chemical in 2022, making up 30% of all chemicals. Conclusion: Children were particularly likely to get poisoned, making up almost half of all poisoning cases. The majority of instances of poisoning are caused by drugs. The biggest groups of them were sedatives and hypnotics (benzodiazepines). Recommendations: Particular laws might need to be passed to make it illegal to buy certain drugs without a prescription. Making sure that antidotes are available, training health care workers, and making treatment recommendations are all ways to improve the clinical management of poisoning cases.