TY  - JOUR
PY  - 2002//
TI  - Ease of access is a principal factor in the frequency of paracetamol overdose
JO  - Irish journal of medical science
A1  - O'Rourke, M.
A1  - Garland, M. R.
A1  - McCormick, P. A.
SP  - 148
EP  - 150
VL  - 171
IS  - 3
N2  - BACKGROUND: In Ireland, 30% of non-fatal overdoses involve paracetamol.  AIMS: To determine how and where patients obtained paracetamol, to assess awareness of toxicity and examine the relationship between dose and suicidal intent.  METHODS: A prospective study of patients admitted following a paracetamol overdose recording their reasons for using paracetamol, their knowledge of its toxicity and their suicidal intent scale (SIS).  RESULTS: Of 100 patients, 66% obtained paracetamol in non-pharmacy outlets, 82% cited ease of availability as the reason, 55% were aware of its toxicity, 31% of liver damage and 68% did not read the warning on packets. The mean number of tablets taken was 51.3 for males and 37.2 for females (p < 0.01). Males presented later than females for medical attention (12.5 versus seven hours [p < 0.02]) and more males than females took alcohol (p < 0.03). The mean SIS score was 14.71 for males and 12.38 for females. There was a significant correlation between the SIS and the amount of paracetamol consumed (r = 0.28; p < 0.01).  CONCLUSION: The majority obtained paracetamol in local shops or at home. Knowledge of toxicity and the need for early antidote was poor. There was a significant relationship between suicidal intent and number of tablets consumed. Limiting availability could reduce number of overdoses.<p /> <p>Language: en</p>
LA  - en
SN  - 0021-1265
UR  - http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/BF03170503
ID  - ref1
ER  -