New Paraquat Formulation: A Step Forward or Backward?
Author Information
Author(s): D. Nicholas Bateman
Primary Institution: Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh
Hypothesis
Is the new paraquat formulation introduced in Sri Lanka effective in reducing deaths from paraquat self-poisoning?
Conclusion
The new paraquat formulation has reduced mortality rates but still results in a high number of deaths.
Supporting Evidence
- 221 deaths occurred among 297 patients who ingested the standard formulation.
- 186 deaths occurred among 289 patients who ingested the new formulation.
- The mortality rate was reduced from 72.9% to 63.3% with the new formulation.
- Median time to death increased from 0.9 days to 1.5 days after the new formulation was introduced.
Takeaway
A new version of paraquat was introduced to help people who accidentally drink it, but many still die from it.
Methodology
Data on exposure, treatment, and outcome of patients who ingested paraquat were collected at nine hospitals over a period of time.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to the involvement of an author from the agribusiness company that produced the new formulation.
Limitations
The study may not adequately address the reasons for formulation changes and their effectiveness.
Participant Demographics
Patients who ingested paraquat in Sri Lanka.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website