Poisoning by drugs in Brazil as recorded by SINITOX between 2007 and 2011

Introduction: In a scenario of epidemiological transition in Brazil, with the increase in the prevalence of chronic diseases, the use of drugs has grown annually. Considering that, depending on the conditions of use, drugs can act as intoxicants, the present work aimed at analyzing the participation of medicines in human intoxications in Brazil, in the years 2007, 2008, 2009 and 2011. Methods: For that purpose, information as recorded by the National Network of Poison Control Centers in the National Poison Information System ­ SINITOX was used. Incidence, mortality and lethality rates were calculated, according to region of the country and sex. There have also been registered historical series for deaths resulting from drug poisoning, according to age and circumstance. The paper presents and discusses the results of epidemiological analysis, and problematizes the SINITOX efficiency. Results: The results show the Southeast as the holder of the highest incidence rate among regions of the country, highlighting the female population to present the highest number of reported cases, the suicide attempt as a main condition linked to cases of poisoning and children as more susceptible population. Conclusions: The study shows greater involvement of children and women in cases of drug poisoning. (AU)