Pediatric Atomoxetine Ingestions Reported to Texas Poison Control Centers, 2003–2005

Abstract

Limited information exists on potentially adverse consequences following pediatric atomoxetine ingestions reported to poison control centers. Using pediatric atomoxetine ingestions reported to Texas poison control centers during 2003–2005, the proportion of cases involving serious outcomes (medical outcomes classified as moderate effects, major effects, death, or judged as potentially toxic exposures) was determined for selected variables and evaluated for statistical significance by calculating the rate ratio (RR) and 95% confidence interval (CI). Of 501 cases identified, 31 (6%) involved serious outcomes. Higher serious outcome rates were found with a maximum dose of >2.8 mg/kg or >200 mg or >4 tablets. Serious outcome rates were also higher if the exposure involved intentional self-harm or the patient was already at or en route to a health care facility when the poison control center was contacted or referred to a health care facility by the poison control center. The severity of the outcome associated with pediatric atomoxetine ingestions was dependent upon the dose and the circumstances of the ingestion (whether intentional self-harm was involved). The management of patients with serious outcomes was more likely to involve health care facilities. This information is useful for creating triage guidelines for the management of pediatric atomoxetine ingestions.

Funding for this research was provided by a contract with the Commission on State Emergency Communications in Texas. I thank the staff of the six poison control centers (Central Texas Poison Center, North Texas Poison Center, Texas Panhandle Poison Center, South Texas Poison Center, Southeast Texas Poison Center, West Texas Regional Poison Center) of the Texas Poison Center Network who collected the data.