Childproof caps open Pandora's box
CMAJ 1997;156:1268
In response to: M. Tenenbein
I appreciate the interest that the Canadian Association of Poison Control Centres has taken in my problems with childproof caps. Although I wrote my letter with tongue in cheek, there is a serious issue here that I believe deserves debate and research.
Although the association believes that its activities have resulted in a victory in the battle for the safekeeping of children without there being a loser, I do not know whether that assumption is correct. Have we transferred a problem from one vulnerable social group to another? In our zeal to protect children, have we inflicted the cost of that protection on elderly people? Has anyone studied scientifically or economically the cost to seniors of the comprehensive use of childproof caps in the drug industry?
Do we know how many elderly people have suffered discomfort, disease exacerbation or even death simply because they were unable to open a bottle? Is society in a net "win" position as a result of the use of CRCs?
Prescription drugs are routinely dispensed with CRCs, and most adults are unaware that they have a choice. "Muddled" seniors are the last people who would be aware of such a choice. There is a good chance they may not think to raise the issue with their physicians or pharmacists and, if someone else is monitoring their affairs, they may suffer silently for years.
Most over-the-counter drugs have CRCs. There is often no choice in packaging.
CRCs are not just a problem for seniors. We have a large population of semiliterate as well as non-English-speaking people. For many of them, CRCs remain a mystery.
I wonder whether the association is claiming credit where credit is not due. Simply because there has been a reduced incidence of accidental poisoning in children coincident with the introduction of CRCs does not necessarily mean there is a causal connection. Is it possible that the reduction is the result of a better educated population?
Lynette E. Sutherland, MD, PhD
North York, Ont.
 |
Send a letter to the editor responding to this letter
Envoyez une lettre à la rédaction au sujet de cette lettre |
Letters