Ramelteon Ingestions Reported to Texas Poison Centers, 2005–2009

BackgroundThe only data that currently exist on ramelteon (Rozerem®; Takeda Pharmaceuticals North America, Inc., Deerfield, IL) ingestions is from clinical trials. To fill this gap, data on ramelteon ingestions reported to Texas poison centers during 2005–2009 were collected and analyzed.ObjectivesThe objective of this study was to describe how reported ramelteon ingestions were handled by Texas poison center staff and when known, the patient’s final medical outcome. In cases where the dosage was significant enough to refer the patient to a health care facility, adverse clinical reactions and treatments are also described.MethodsCases were analyzed for selected demographic and clinical factors. Of 222 total patients, 67.6% were women and 73.9% were over the age of 19 years. Cases were analyzed by motivating factors (e.g., unintentional, intentional), management site, adverse reactions, and final medical outcome.ResultsOf the ramelteon ingestions reported to Texas poison centers, 67.6% involved adult women and were suspected attempted suicides; 75% of ramelteon ingestions not involving other substances were managed at a health care facility. However, 88.3% of these ingestions resulted in no significant clinical effect.ConclusionThe management strategies used by Texas poison centers for the 56 cases reported in this study were adequate.