Acute Intentional and Accidental Poisoning With Medications in a Southern Brazilian City

This cross-sectional study analyzed acute intentional & accidental poisoning with medications according to factors related to the individual, the poisoning, & the drug involved. All cases reported from 2003-2004 by the Poison Control Center at the Regional University Hospital in Maringa, Parana State, Brazil were included. A total of 546 cases were included. Females predominated among intentional cases. The most frequently involved drugs were those acting on the central nervous system, predominantly those requiring controlled prescriptions, especially among the intentional cases. Results confirm the need for preventive measures that contribute to the rational use of medications. (34 refs.)