Irish journal of medical science
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Poisoning is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in children and adolescents. Pharmaceutical and household products are responsible for the majority of cases. ⋯ Few unintentional ingestions in the paediatric group result in serious toxicity. Mortality is rare. There is increasing intentional poisoning and alcohol abuse in adolescents. Poison prevention should be part of all well child visits. Agencies catering for children should carry educational leaflets for parents on how to 'poison proof' a child's environment, as the majority of incidents occur at home.