Deliberate self-poisoning in an Irish county hospital

Background In 1997, 433 people committed suicide in Ireland, one-quarter of whom were less than 24 years of age. Aim To determine demographics, agent choice and source, suicidality and fol low-up care of deliberate self-poisoning patients. Method Details of 111 patients admitted to one hospital in 1997 following d rug overdose were studied retrospectively. Eleven had been accidental inges tions, the remaining 100 were deliberate self-poisoning. Results Men accounted for 38% of the presentations and were more likely to have suicidal intent than women. An average of 2.3 different agents were us ed. Paracetamol was taken by 37%, hypnotics/anxiolytics by 33% and nonstero idal anti-inflammatories by 17%. Alcohol was consumed synchronously by 51% and 17% fulfilled criteria for alcohol dependency. One-third of patients we re clinically depressed. All six patients requiring ventilation had consume d a combination of tricyclic antidepressants and alcohol. There were no dea ths. Conclusion Deliberate self-poisoning remains a significant problem. Paracet amol and alcohol use are particularly marked in this population. The combin ation of tricyclic antidepressant drugs and alcohol were the most dangerous .