Author: Uzma Akhtar, MScN student at the School of Nursing and Midwifery, Agha Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan. She did her BScN from Khyber Medical University, Peshawar, and has a rich clinical and Academic Record. 

The silent killer: Understanding Suicide by Wheat Pill Poisoning

 

Suicide is a global public health problem that affects individuals, families, and communities worldwide. “Each year, more than 700000 people die by suicide, and for every suicide, there are more attempts of suicide” (Suicide, n.d.) One of the less well-known methods of suicide is wheat pill poisoning. “wheat pill poisoning has been labeled as the second most commonest method of suicidal attempts.” (Hassan Ur Rehman et al., 2021)

In wheat and rice storage reservoirs, the rice pill, also known as the wheat pill(zinc or aluminum phosphide), is used as a rodenticide. Due to its widespread availability, cases of aluminum phosphide (wheat pill) poisoning with suicidal intent have increased in developing nations like Pakistan. It has a high fatality rate and there is no cure. ” (Hassan Ur Rehman et al., 2021) When wheat pills are ingested, they form a viscous, gel-like substance in the stomach, which can cause vomiting and other gastrointestinal symptoms. This can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, which can be life-threatening if not treated promptly. In addition to the physical effects, there are psychological factors that may contribute to suicide by wheat pill poisoning. For example, individuals who choose this method may feel hopeless, overwhelmed, and trapped, and may see suicide as the only way out of their situation.

        Individuals who experience depression, anxiety or other mental health disorders are at increased risk. Those who have experienced trauma, abuse, or other life stressors may also be more likely to consider suicide. Additionally, those who have a history of suicide attempts or have a family history of suicide may be at higher risk. Preventing suicide by wheat pill poisoning involves addressing the underlying mental health and social issues that may lead to suicidal thoughts and behavior. Treatment may involve counseling, therapy, medication, and other supportive measures to address these issues and reduce the risk of suicide. In cases of wheat pill poisoning, immediate medical attention is critical. Treatment may involve activated charcoal to absorb the toxins, intravenous fluids to address dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, and other supportive measures as needed.

        Suicide by wheat pill poisoning is a serious global public health problem, particularly in developing countries such as Pakistan. It affects the individual who is experiencing mental health disorders or life stressors, and those who have a history of suicide attempts or have a family history of suicide. Prevention and treatment involve addressing the underlying mental health and social issues and providing immediate medical attention in cases of poisoning. Without action, this problem will continue to have divesting consequences for individuals, families, and communities worldwide. Therefore, the community must take action by raising awareness, providing resources and support, and promoting mental health education to prevent future suicide attempts.

References:

Hassan Ur Rehman, Valeed Bin Mansoor, Fibhaa Syed, Mohammad Ali Arif, & Ayesha Javed. (2021). Wheat pill poisoning: Complications and management. Journal of the Pakistan Medical Association, 1–8. https://doi.org/10.47391/JPMA.02-222

Suicide. (n.d.). Retrieved May 10, 2023, from https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/suicide