Self-poisoning in Auckland reconsidered.

Data is presented describing 345 self-poisoners presenting at the accident and emergency department and 211 referred to the psychiatric liaison service at Auckland Hospital during the 12 month period between August 1976 and July 1977. Both groups show the age and sex distribution commonly seen in self-poisoning, with a preponderance of young females. Referral rates increased with age and with the implication of anti-depressants, neuroleptics and anticonvulsants. Only 20 percent of the referred patients had a serious psychiatric disorder. Personality disorder, depressive neurosis and transient situational disturbance accounted for 80 percent. The benzodiazepine group of anxiolytics was implicated in 40 percent of incidents and the use of this class of medication is discussed in relation to the problem of self-poisoning. It is suggested that if all Auckland doctors made a decision not to prescribe oral benzodiazepines, the incidence of self-poisoning in the city could be reduced to a half to two thirds of its present proportions.