Toxicological statistics for barbiturates, other sedatives, and tranquillizers in Ontario: a 10-year survey

Abstract

A steady increase in the number of cases of poisoning due to barbiturates, tranquillizers and non-barbiturate sedatives has been noted for Ontario by the Attorney-General's Laboratory, Toronto, during the period 1955-1964 on the basis of submitted material. Five cases of poisoning by barbiturates were recorded in 1955 and 193 in 1964.Urine and blood samples from persons charged with driving motor vehicles while under the influence of drugs were also examined. In 1958 only one such case was reported to the Laboratory, whereas 25 cases were recorded in 1964; barbiturates were detected in 18 of these 25. Patients must be warned of the risks of ingesting alcohol while receiving barbiturate treatment.