[Drug poisonings in children hospitalized in The Regional Hospital No. 2 in Rzeszow in the years 2010-2014].

INTRODUCTION: Drug poisoning is a frequent cause of hospitalization in children and youth. The aim of the study was to evaluate the prevalence of drug poisoning in children in the region of Rzeszów city.

MATERIAL AND METHODS: Medical records of paediatric patients hospitalized in The Regional Hospital No. 2 in Rzeszow between 2010 and 2014 was reviewed and data were collected using scientific protocol. The following factors were analyzed: type of medication causing intoxication, the causality of the event, duration and seasonality of hospitalization as well as demographic data, such as the patient's age and sex.

RESULTS: Within the analyzed period 295 children (194 girls and 101 boys) aged between 6 months and 18 years were hospitalized due to acute drug poisoning. Nonopioid painkillers, antiepileptic drugs and sedatives, affecting the cardiovascular system were the main classes of ingested medications. A growing phenomenon of recreational use of drugs which induce euphoria, especially dextromethorphan, was observed among young people.

CONCLUSIONS: Due to rising incidence of drug poisoning in childhood physicians and pharmacists should extend their efforts to instruct and educate parents and caregivers about correct drag dosing, safe storage conditions and principles of poisoning prevention.