Correlations between prescriptions and drugs taken in self‐poisoning: Implications for prescribers and drug regulation

Abstract

Short-acting barbiturates, chloral hydrate and dextropropoxyphene have little or no clinical advantage over alternatives and excessive toxicity in overdose. They should be removed from the market. The toxicity of anticonvulsants and colchicine should be considered when they are prescribed, and smaller amounts per prescription may be advisable for high risk patients using these and other toxic drugs.