Epidemiological and Clinical Characteristics of Opium Poisoning Compared to Other Opioids in a Poisoning Referral Center: Registry Based Study Publisher

Summary: In 762 opioid poisonings, opium cases were older, sicker and more often confused or comatose, though deaths were similar, an Iranian study reports. #Toxicology #Opioids

R Meamar ROKHSAREH ; S Ebrahimi SAMI ; A Otroshi ARMAN ; A Feizi AWAZ ; N Eizadimood NASTARAN
Source: Emerging Trends in Drugs, Addictions, and Health Published:2025

Abstract

Background: This study aimed to compare the clinicoepidemiological characteristics of opium poisoning with other types of opioids and analyze factors associated with opium poisoning. Methods: This cross sectional study was conducted on patients with opioid poisoning from may 5, 2023 until may 5, 2024. Patients were divided into two groups: those with opium poisoning and those with other types of opioid poisoning. Data related to epidemiological, toxicological and clinical examinations as well as outcomes were collected. Results: This study included a total of 762 patients with opioid poisoning over a one-year period, of whom 126 had ingested opium. Patients with opium poisoning were older, married, less educated and had a higher prevalence of underlying diseases compared to patients with other types of opioid poisoning. There was a significant difference between the two groups in terms of their level of consciousness (P < 0.001). Confusion, stupor and coma were more prevalent among those with opium poisoning. There was no statistically significant difference in terms of intubation and outcome in both groups (P > 0.05). Multivariable logistic regression in opium poisoning revealed that for every one-year increase in age, the odds of opium poisoning increased by up to 5 % (OR = 1.05, 95 %CI (1.03–1.07); P < 0.001) compared to other opioid poisoning. In total 10 patients died, with 2 of them ingesting opium. Conclusion: These findings could be helpful for risk assessment, management of opium poisoning and prevention strategies for the high-risk group. © 2025 Elsevier B.V., All rights reserved.