Poison Control Centre at Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences

Poison Control Centre at Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences (AIMS) in Cochin, India, is a specialized toxicology facility dedicated to managing poison-related emergencies, toxic exposures, and chemical hazards. This center plays a pivotal role in the prompt diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of poisonings, offering essential support to both healthcare professionals and the general public.

History
The Poison Control Centre at AIMS was established in 2003 and became fully operational in January 2005 to address the growing need for comprehensive poison control services in the region. Since its inception, it has been involved in poison management, providing guidance and treatment for cases of accidental poisonings, overdoses, and exposures to toxic substances. It is one among the few PCCs in India listed in the Global Directory of Poison Control Centers of World Health Organization. It is accredited by NABL (National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories) as part of overall clinical laboratory services of Amrita Hospital.

It is listed as open to the public and open 24 hours a day on the WHO list of poison control centers.

Mission and Objectives
The primary mission of the PCC is to provide up-to-date and extensive information on poisons, poisoning, and analytical toxicology to serving hospitals, medical practitioners, and the general public, it aims to facilitate prompt and informed responses to poison-related incidents. This facility combines information resources, analytical capabilities, and research initiatives.

Types of Samples Processed



 * Body fluids: blood, urine, stomach contents (e.g. vomitus).
 * Commercial products such as medicines, food samples: for detecting the presence of poisons or drugs.
 * Cases both routine and medicolegal are analysed; however, viscera samples from forensic cases are usually not accepted.

Future Initiatives

 * 1) The Centre is actively involved in developing a unique toxicology database tailored to the specific needs of nationwide doctors and hospitals in India. This initiative aims to enhance the effectiveness in management of poisoning and overdose cases.