Glyphosate Poisoning: An Observational Study from a Tertiary Care Center in North Karnataka

Background: Glyphosate, a widely used herbicide, is increasingly implicated in intentional self-poisoning cases in India. Despite its extensive use, the literature on clinical presentation and outcomes from glyphosate poisoning in Indian settings remains limited. Materials and Methods: This observational study involved 66 patients admitted with glyphosate poisoning during a specified study period. Data on demographics, time to hospital presentation, clinical features, duration of hospital stay, and outcomes were analyzed. Results: During the study period, 66 patients were diagnosed with glyphosate poisoning, with a mean age of 31.71 ± 11.60 years. Males predominated (75.75%). The majority (95.45%) of the patients were discharged after recovery, with a mortality rate of 4.54%. The average time from poison ingestion to hospital presentation was 5.16 h, and the mean duration of hospital stay was 4.16 days. The most common symptoms were vomiting (63.63%), followed by breathlessness (12.12%), hypotension (9.09%), altered sensorium (6.06%), respiratory failure (6.06%), and acute kidney injury (6.06%). Early supportive management resulted in favorable outcomes for most patients. Conclusions: Glyphosate poisoning, though associated with significant clinical symptoms, has a relatively low mortality rate when treated promptly. Early recognition and supportive care are crucial in improving outcomes. Public health measures are needed to regulate access and educate the population about its toxicity.