Chandigarh Doctors Pioneer Celphos Poisoning Treatment

Doctors at the Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER) have reported a major global breakthrough in the treatment of aluminium phosphide poisoning, commonly known as Celphos. The innovation offers a new, affordable, and life-saving approach to managing one of the most lethal pesticide poisonings prevalent in India, particularly in rural and agricultural regions.

Breakthrough Clinical Study at PGIMER

The research, conducted by the Department of Internal Medicine at PGIMER, is the first clinical study worldwide to demonstrate the effectiveness of intravenous lipid emulsion therapy in aluminium phosphide poisoning. The findings have been published in the internationally reputed journal “European Review of Medical and Pharmacological Sciences”, bringing global recognition to the work. The study was carried out under the guidance of Dr Sanjay Jain, Dean (Academics) and Head of Internal Medicine at PGIMER.

Improved Outcomes With Lipid Emulsion Therapy

The randomised clinical study showed that patients receiving intravenous lipid emulsion in addition to standard medical care had significantly lower mortality rates. They also experienced faster correction of severe metabolic acidosis, improved haemodynamic stability, and better recovery even in cases presenting with shock and cardiac complications. Early administration of the therapy was found to substantially alter the otherwise fatal clinical course of aluminium phosphide poisoning.

Affordable Solution for Rural Healthcare

A key advantage of intravenous lipid emulsion therapy is its practicality. The treatment is inexpensive, widely available, and already stocked in most hospitals, including district and peripheral healthcare facilities. This makes it particularly valuable for rural and remote areas, where the burden of Celphos poisoning is highest and access to advanced critical care infrastructure is limited.

Important Facts for Exams

• Aluminium phosphide is commonly known as Celphos.
• It is widely used as a grain preservative in agriculture.
• Intravenous lipid emulsion is now shown to reduce mortality.
• Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh report high poisoning incidence.

Public Health Significance and Research Impact

Aluminium phosphide poisoning remains a serious public health challenge in several Indian states due to its widespread agricultural use and extremely high fatality rates. The PGIMER-led study, funded by the institute’s Medical Education and Research Cell, underscores the importance of locally relevant, evidence-based research. By identifying an effective and accessible treatment, the breakthrough has the potential to save thousands of lives and significantly strengthen emergency care outcomes across India.