Epidemiological and clinical characteristics of opium poisoning compared to other opioids in a poisoning referral center: Registry based study

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). Multivariate 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.