Substances Used in Deliberate Self-Poisoning 1985-1997: Trends and Associations With age, Gender, Repetition and Suicide Intent

The authors investigate trends in substances used for self-poisoning & the influence of age, gender, suicidal intent, & repetition status on the substances used. Marked changes were found in the substances used for self-poisoning, which seem primarily to reflect availability, as do the influences of age & repeater status on choice of substances used. It is suggested that degree of suicidal intent may also influence choice of method for self-poisoning. (14 refs)