1Department of Health System Management Studies, JSS Academy of Higher Education and Research, Mysuru, Karnataka, India.
2,3,4Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Aditya College of Pharmacy, Surampalem, Andhra Pradesh, India.
5*Department of Pharmacy Practice, AU College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Andhra University, Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, India
Background: Poisoning remains a major public health challenge, particularly in developing countries where exposure to pesticides, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, and animal envenomation is common. Regional epidemiological data are essential for guiding prevention strategies and improving clinical outcomes.
Methods: A retrospective observational study was conducted at a tertiary care government hospital in Visakhapatnam, India, from October 2022 to March 2023. Medical records of patients admitted with confirmed acute poisoning were reviewed. Data on demographics, type of poisoning, clinical manifestations, sociobehavioral factors, and outcomes were analyzed using descriptive statistical methods.
Results: Eighty-three poisoning cases were included. The highest incidence occurred among individuals aged 21–30 years. Bites and stings, pesticide exposure, pharmaceutical products, and chemical poisoning were the main categories identified. Suicidal poisoning accounted for 56.62% of cases, while accidental poisoning accounted for 43.37%. Loss of consciousness and abdominal pain were the most frequent clinical presentations. Rural populations showed a higher prevalence of snake bites, whereas pharmaceutical poisoning was more common in urban areas. Most patients recovered successfully, and no mortality was reported during hospitalization.
Conclusion: Poisoning predominantly affects young adults and is influenced by environmental and sociocultural factors. Strengthening poison control programs, improving mental health support, and increasing public awareness may help reduce poisoning-related morbidity. Early diagnosis and prompt clinical management contribute to favorable outcomes.
Keywords: Poisoning epidemiology; pesticide toxicity; snake bite; emergency medicine; toxicology; India.
How to cite this article: Obbalareddy S, Manyam SSD, Samala ML, Swetha A, Manthena SS. Epidemiological Profile and Clinical Outcomes of Acute Poisoning in a Tertiary Care Hospital in South India: A Retrospective Observational Study. Int J Drug Deliv Technol. 2026; 16(8s): 449-456; DOI: 10.25258/ijddt.16.8s.59
Source of support: Nil.
Conflict of interest: Nil.