Correlation between the single, high dose of ingested baclofen and clinical symptoms.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: Baclofen is a drug used mainly to treat muscle spasticity. Its overdose can lead to life-threatening clinical symptoms, including acute respiratory failure requiring mechanical ventilation. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of selected clinical symptoms associated with baclofen poisoning comparing to an ingested dose. MATERIAL AND METHODS: 60 cases of oral baclofen poisoning were analyzed. Gender, age distribution, and correlation between the dose of ingested baclofen were studied, as well as and following clinical parameters: degree of altered consciousness, heart rate, blood pressure, presence of acute respiratory failure, duration of mechanical ventilation, and presence of psychotic symptoms. RESULTS: The study found statistically significant correlations between dosage of ingested baclofen and presence of acute respiratory failure, as well as duration of mechanical ventilation. No statistically significant correlations were found between the dose of ingested baclofen and presence of hypertension, bradycardia, acute psychotic symptoms, or level of consciousness disturbance. However, it was found that patients who suffered from hypertension, bradycardia, and altered mental status ingested a larger dose of baclofen. CONCLUSIONS: There is a statistically significant correlation between the dose of ingested baclofen and the presence of acute respiratory failure, and duration of mechanical ventilation. Patients who have taken a single dose of baclofen of 200 mg, or higher, should be managed in centres able to provide continuous monitoring of life functions. Those with a higher level of a single dose of baclofen ingestion (>500 mg), should be hospitalized in a Toxicology Unit or Intensive Care Unit able to provide airway support and mechanical ventilation.

Regulatory strategies to ensure food and feed safety in Poland--update review.

The principal State authorities responsible for food safety in Poland are primarily the national Chief Sanitary Inspectorate followed by the Chief Veterinary Inspectorate, who are both statutorily empowered to discharge their functions within their competencies defined by the regulations. This article presents the current status of legislation in the area of food safety together with a description of how systems governing this field are organised in Poland. It should be noted that the surveillance and monitoring of food safety covers the entire food chain. Also outlined is the way the RASFF system operates in Poland, including its track record of experience up to the present time as well as how the role of EFSA is integrated into these areas.