LES INTOXICATIONS MEDICAMENTEUSES dans la wilaya de Sétif

Abstract

Drug poisoning is one of the common reasons for seeking emergency medical care. A descriptive retrospective study was conducted at the Public Hospital of El Eulma (EPH), the Public Hospital of Aïn Oulmene (EPH) during the study period, and at the Psychiatric Specialized Hospital of Aïn Abassa (EHS Psy). Our study aims to describe the epidemiological characteristics of drug poisonings in these three healthcare institutions. A total of 338 cases were recorded in El Eulma, accounting for 31.7% of all reported poisoning cases, and 193 cases in Aïn Oulmene, representing 26.44%. Statistical data showed that the most affected age group was between 16 and 35 years, with rates of 63.9% in El Eulma, 54.92% in Aïn Oulmene, and 46% at the EHS Psy in Aïn Abassa. The majority of cases involved females, with respective rates of 61% and 63%. Moreover, males accounted for 97% of drug-related poisoning cases at the EHS Psy in Aïn Abassa. Regarding the drugs most frequently involved, PARACETAMOL, LYRICA, and LEVOTHYROX were the main substances responsible for poisoning. The results of our study highlight the need to strengthen prevention efforts through public awareness campaigns, healthcare staff training, and the development of effective intervention strategies.