Changes in the pattern of drug overdoses.

OBJECTIVE

To describe changes in the pattern of patients with drug overdoses hospitalized over the past two decades.

DESIGN

Retrospective data review.

SETTING

A 719-bed university-affiliated hospital.

PATIENTS

All adults admitted to the hospital with drug overdoses in 1968, 1979, and 1989.

PRIMARY OUTCOME MEASURES

Changes in demographics, drugs used, and discharge disposition.

RESULTS

A majority of patients admitted with drug overdoses have had previous suicide attempts; and while women predominate, they make up a decreasing proportion of admissions over time (76% in 1968 to 52% in 1989 (p = 0.003). Benzodiazepines were the drugs most commonly used in 1979 and 1989, and cocaine has shown a marked increase in use over time, while barbiturate overdoses have progressively decreased. The use of two or more drugs is common and has been consistent over time, as has been the concomitant use of alcohol. The mortality rate has remained low at 1%, but mean length of stay has decreased dramatically from 6.6 days in 1979 to 3.2 days in 1989 (p < 0.001) and discharge disposition has shifted from out-patient to inpatient psychiatric care.

CONCLUSIONS

The majority of patients admitted to a general acute care hospital following a drug overdose have a history of previous suicide attempts and are followed by a mental health professional. The changing pattern of drugs used over two decades reflects trends in drugs used in the community in general and by patients with mental illness in particular. Discharge disposition has changed over time and is related to patients' insurance status.