EPIDEMIOLOGY — Accidental and intentional poisoning from both licit and illicit substances remains a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide [3-7]. In the United States, the American Association of Poison Control Centers

The general approach and initial management of patients with suspected or confirmed poisoning will be reviewed here. Specific issues relating to the management of common drug overdoses are discussed separately (see appropriate topic reviews). A topic devoted to the management of the critically ill patient with an unknown overdose is found separately. (See "Initial management of the critically ill adult with an unknown overdose".)