Preventing Pediatric Opioid Poisoning: Unusual Sources and Scenarios

J Pediatr. 2024 Dec:275:114236. doi: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2024.114236. Epub 2024 Aug 14.

Abstract

This retrospective study analyzed 230 pediatric opioid exposures from a statewide poison control center over a 5-year period. Most exposures involved pharmaceutical opioids and children below 2-years-old. Narrative details were reviewed to identify uncommon sources of opioids involved in poisoning and highlight the need for tailored prevention strategies and guidance.

Keywords: Fentanyl; buprenorphine; drug endangerment; injury prevention; opioids; pediatrics; poison prevention.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Analgesics, Opioid* / poisoning
  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Male
  • Opiate Overdose / epidemiology
  • Opiate Overdose / prevention & control
  • Poison Control Centers* / statistics & numerical data
  • Poisoning / epidemiology
  • Poisoning / prevention & control
  • Retrospective Studies

Substances

  • Analgesics, Opioid