Abstract
Paracetamol, ibuprofen and aspirin are used frequently in self-poisoning attempts. They are available both over the counter (OTC) and on prescription. Measures have been taken to limit OTC supply, particularly for paracetamol. To effectively target any limitation in the supply of drugs used for self-harming, however, it is important to understand from where the drugs are obtained.
This paper has examined the proportion of paracetamol, aspirin and ibuprofen prescribed in theTayside region of Scotland.
Using databases within the Medicines Monitoring Unit (MEMO) in Ninewells Hospital, Dundee, data on dispensed paracetamol, ibuprofen or aspirin were record-linked to admissions for poisoning with paracetamol, aspirin or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) respectively.
Up to 15% of hospitalisations were associated with a prescription dispensed up to one month before admission.
It appears that most admission to hospital for selfpoisoning with paracetamol, aspirin or ibuprofen are not associated with prescribed drugs. Measures to reduce the incidence of self-poisoning with these drugs needs to be aimed at the OTC supply.
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