A Two-year Retrospective Observational Cohort Study of Benzodiazepine Overdose Cases in the Emergency Department
Year: 2025
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Background: Deliberate self-harm (DSH) is a significant health concern in developing countries, associated with high morbidity and mortality. Several factors influence patient outcomes. This study aimed to better understand the profile and outcomes of patients with benzodiazepine (BZD) overdose. Materials and methods: This two-year analysis conducted in the Emergency Department (ED) focused on patients with DSH and BZD toxicity. Key factors and outcomes were recorded and analyzed. Results: = 49; 51.6%) of patients were admitted to the hospital, of whom 30 (61.2%) were discharged in stable condition, while 19 (38.8%) left against medical advice. No deaths were reported. Conclusion: Middle-aged females were most frequently involved in DSH cases. Single-drug BZD overdose was more common in this age-group. The predominant symptoms included drowsiness and gastrointestinal complaints. Most patients required hospital admission. How to cite this article: Giftson J, Hazra D, Chandy GM. A Two-year Retrospective Observational Cohort Study of Benzodiazepine Overdose Cases in the Emergency Department. Indian J Crit Care Med 2025;29(3):230-235.
Language: English
Subfield: Emergency Medicine
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4408037423