Drug overdose in Pakistan, a growing concern; A Review

Abstract

The primary cause of overdose in Pakistan is a lack of implementation of pharmaceutical drug sales regulations. The use of a drug or medicine over the recommended safe dose, whether accidentally or purposely, constitutes a drug overdose. The type of drug, amount consumed, and medical history of the person who overdosed determine its severity. It can be accidental or intentional and can result in serious medical issues or even death. In Pakistan, there is growing concern about two major categories of overdoses: opioid overdose and recreational drug overdose. About 700 people die of drug-related complications and overdose in Pakistan every day, which translates to 250 000 deaths every year. In Pakistan, an estimated 7 million individuals take drugs regularly. Among them, 4 million use cannabis, and 2.7 million use opiates. Since 2005, ANF Model Addiction Treatment & Rehabilitation Centers (MATRC) have treated more than 14 000 patients. At least 604 individuals connected to Pakistani drug trafficking have been found guilty by the ANF since 2014. Another promising cause of drug overdose is qualified doctors negligence. Many doctors do not spend enough time with their patients and do not adequately educate them about the disease, drug dosage, timing, drug-drug interactions, drug-food interactions, and adverse effects. There is a need for immediate action, which includes employee training, psychoeducational campaigns on mental health and suicide, medical resources for quick treatment of self-poisoning, and revised government regulations on drug sales. To lower the prevalence and negative effects of overdoses in Pakistan, it may be necessary to educate the ‘chemist’ and restrict the number of tablets that can be prescribed at once.