Are these substances bad for you? Are they poisons? Browse Poison Control's comprehensive library covering 512 potentially poisonous substances. Our experts answer your top questions, offer poisoning prevention tips, and walk you through the steps you should take if you suspect a potential toxic exposure.
Suspect a poisoning? Help from Poison Control is available online from the webPOISONCONTROL online tool or by phone at 1-800-222-1222. Both options are free, confidential, and available 24 hours a day.
Acetaminophen is a very safe medicine when used in recommended doses to treat pain and fever. But too much acetaminophen can cause liver damage and even death. This has happened when parents didn't understand the concentration or measurements. New formulations of acetaminophen for children make it easier to give the correct dose.
Acetaminophen is a very safe drug to take according to label instructions. In overdose, too much acetaminophen can damage the liver. In fact, acetaminophen overdose is an important cause of liver failure and liver transplants in the US.
Acetaminophen is a safe and effective pain reliever when taken according to label instructions. But in overdose, it is a leading cause of liver damage and death.
There is no evidence that cough and cold medicines are safe or effective for young children. There IS evidence that children have been harmed by overdoses of these products. Problems include seizures, coma, and death.
Activated charcoal is a special form of carbon that can bind other substances on its surface in a process known as adsorption. It is also effective in adsorbing drugs in the gut so the drugs don't enter the body.
Hangovers are unpleasant symptoms that occur after the consumption of alcohol. Even though many products are marketed as hangover treatments, there is no cure for this condition. The best way to prevent a hangover is to avoid drinking excessive amounts of alcohol.
A borg, or “black out rage gallon”, typically contains a fifth of vodka, water, and liquid flavor enhancer. Borg drinking is popular among some college students, but consumption of the high amounts of alcohol often found in borgs can cause harmful health effects, similar to those resulting from heavy alcohol use or binge drinking.
Alcohol can be a dangerous poison for children. Alcohol depresses the central nervous system and causes low blood glucose (sugar). Children who drink alcohol can have seizures and coma; they could even die. This is true of beverage alcohol (beer, wine, liquor) and alcohol found in mouthwash and other personal care products.
Ethanol, found in alcoholic beverages, is safe for most adults in moderation. Excessive ethanol intake and consumption of other types of alcohol can be dangerous.
Alcohol vapors can be produced by heating up alcohol or pouring it over dry ice. Alcohol can be absorbed into your bloodstream by inhaling alcohol vapors. People who inhale alcohol vapors get drunk very quickly, because the alcohol goes straight to the brain. Also, heated alcohol vapor can injure the lungs.
Rubbing alcohol is a widely available household product often used to disinfect wounds. It is most commonly 70% isopropyl alcohol. It can be toxic if swallowed, inhaled, or absorbed through the skin. It is flammable and should always be kept away from open flames.
Most fragrance products contain alcohol, which can cause serious effects in children. Fragrance products can also cause skin irritation and allergic reactions, which will usually go away if you stop using the product.
Spiked beverages have become increasingly common. Although they usually do not contain a high percentage of alcohol, many of the brands and names are for products that traditionally have not contained alcohol. This can cause problems when children or unsuspecting adults consume them, believing they are non-alcoholic.
Lots of alcohol plus lots of caffeine equals danger, with possible results ranging from sexual assault to automobile crashes to alcohol-induced coma or even death.
Over the river and through the woods, to grandmother's house - or maybe on a cruise - or perhaps to a hotel in a new city or a foreign country? Wherever your destination for the holidays, by automobile, plane, ship or sleigh, a little planning will help keep holiday travel safe and enjoyable.
Hand sanitizers most often contain alcohols that have been FDA-approved for use on the skin. A taste or sip usually does not cause serious symptoms, but ingestion of larger quantities can be hazardous.
It is dangerous to swallow antifreeze, even in small amounts. The toxicity of antifreeze develops slowly as the body breaks down the antifreeze (ethylene glycol) into by-products that affect blood chemistry, the nervous system, and the kidneys.
There are special poisoning concerns during the winter: family travel, family gatherings, carbon monoxide poisoning, and winter chemicals for the car. Follow Poison Control's prevention tips to keep your family safe this winter.
Ibuprofen, naproxen, and aspirin are non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). They are used to treat pain, fever, and inflammation. They are also found in combination products such as cough and cold medicines. An overdose of these medications may cause stomach upset, abdominal pain, and vomiting, kidney damage, ulcers, bleeding, seizures, and coma.
Aspirin is an over-the-counter medication used as an anti-inflammatory agent and for pain or fever relief. Low dose aspirin is used to prevent heart attacks and strokes in people with existing heart disease, and sometimes in pregnancy to prevent preeclampsia. Normal side effects include stomach upset and indigestion. Aspirin overdose can be life-threatening.
Children will swallow anything they can reach. Most of the time, these objects pass through the gastrointestinal tract with no trouble; the object turns up in the child's stool. Sometimes, surgery is needed to remove the object(s). In one recent study, coins made up 80 percent of swallowed foreign objects that had to be removed by surgery.
A recent study of battery injuries found that 29.8% of button battery ingestions involved batteries that were discarded or sitting out. Taping button batteries before disposal can decrease or stop button batteries from causing injury and will not affect the ability of the battery to be recycled.
More and more children are being injured, or even dying, from swallowing button or disk batteries. This tragedy can be prevented. Batteries stuck in the esophagus must be removed as quickly as possible as severe damage can occur in just 2 hours. Batteries in the nose or ear also must be removed immediately to avoid permanent damage.
Swallowed batteries burn through a child's esophagus in just 2 hours, leading to surgery, months with feeding and breathing tubes, and even death. About the size of a nickel, 20 mm, 3-volt lithium coin cells are the most hazardous as they are big enough to get stuck and burn faster. Secure battery compartments and keep loose batteries away from children.
Over the river and through the woods, to grandmother's house - or maybe on a cruise - or perhaps to a hotel in a new city or a foreign country? Wherever your destination for the holidays, by automobile, plane, ship or sleigh, a little planning will help keep holiday travel safe and enjoyable.
Buprenorphine is prescribed for adults with opioid dependence or chronic pain. Most buprenorphine poisoning in children occurs due to improper storage of the medication. Symptoms of buprenorphine poisoning in children are drowsiness, vomiting, slow breathing, increased heart rate, and agitation. Coma and death have also been reported.
"ADHD" stands for "attention deficit hyperactivity disorder". Symptoms include hyperactivity, impulsiveness, and inability to pay attention, manage frustration, stay organized, or focus on tasks. Treatment is based on behavior therapy and/or drug therapy. ADHD drugs can cause side effects; a deliberate overdose of any amount requires immediate medical care.
Prime drinks, including Prime Energy, Prime Hydration, and Prime UFC 300 are increasingly popular among children, adolescents, and young adults. Prime products contain coconut water and electrolytes; Prime Energy also contains 200 mg of caffeine per can. Because of its caffeine content, children, pregnant or lactating women, and those who are sensitive to the effects of caffeine should avoid consumption of Prime Energy.
Many weight loss supplements contain ingredients that are contaminated, ineffective, dangerous, or actually illegal. Some people become ill after taking these products. Some have interactions with medicines. It can be hard to get your money back. Worst of all, these products often don't help.
Caffeine is a stimulant found in everyday beverages, such as soda and coffee. In recent years, energy drinks containing large amounts of caffeine and other herbal stimulants have become increasingly common on store shelves. While caffeine is generally safe in moderation, consuming large amounts of caffeine can be dangerous.
Pre-workout supplements can contain caffeine and other ingredients which can be poisonous when taken in large amounts. Dry scooping, or consumption of undiluted pre-workout powder, can be life-threatening.
Lots of alcohol plus lots of caffeine equals danger, with possible results ranging from sexual assault to automobile crashes to alcohol-induced coma or even death.
Symptoms of caffeine overdose can be mild (shaky hands, stomach upset) to severe (high blood pressure, seizures, coma). Caffeine is found in traditional sources (coffee, tea, chocolate, soda) and many new sources (energy drinks, foods with added caffeine). Children are taking in more and more caffeine, but we don't know how much is safe for children.
The line between enough caffeine and too much varies from person to person. People who overdo it can experience unpleasant side effects until the caffeine wears off in a few hours. People who take too many caffeine pills to stay awake can have seizures. There have even been some deaths from caffeine overdoses.
Matcha is a bright green powder that is often mixed with hot water to form a tea. Because it has a sweet, non-bitter taste, matcha is also used as an additive in desserts and other foods. Matcha contains high amounts of L-theanine and other compounds that may have beneficial effects on inflammation, metabolism, and gut health.
So many poison prevention stories are about children, but when it comes to home remodeling, adults are at risk, too. Children, adults, and pets can become sick if home renovations are not carried out carefully.
Natural gas is a gaseous hydrocarbon mixture with methane serving as the main gas. Methane is a simple asphyxiant that displaces oxygen in the air. If the methane concentration is high enough, the result is hypoxia and asphyxia (suffocation). If you suspect a natural gas leak, leave the building and contact the gas company. If people are sick, call Poison Control.
Shortly after a hurricane in Texas, 75% of children treated for carbon monoxide poisoning had been playing video games powered by portable generators.
There is a lot of information about avoiding drugs, alcohol, and tobacco while pregnant. There are some other poisons to be aware of if you're pregnant, including herbal medications, supplements, lead, and carbon monoxide.
It is possible for heavy smokers to develop carbon monoxide poisoning. This can be severe enough to require treatment in an emergency room.
It's not an intriguing or novel hazard, just the persistent, invisible killer: carbon monoxide. Seriously, you still don't have a carbon monoxide alarm in every sleeping area of your home? Get one! And keep fuel-burning appliances in good repair; don't use grills or gasoline-powered tools indoors, and don't run your car in an attached garage or place a generator close to your home.
There are special poisoning concerns during the winter: family travel, family gatherings, carbon monoxide poisoning, and winter chemicals for the car. Follow Poison Control's prevention tips to keep your family safe this winter.
Over the river and through the woods, to grandmother's house - or maybe on a cruise - or perhaps to a hotel in a new city or a foreign country? Wherever your destination for the holidays, by automobile, plane, ship or sleigh, a little planning will help keep holiday travel safe and enjoyable.
Chelation therapy is a treatment for heavy metal poisoning: iron, mercury, arsenic, and lead. Some people give chelation "therapy" for other conditions such as cardiovascular disease, autism, and Alzheimer's. This exposes patients to risks without benefit. A large study of chelation therapy for cardiovascular disease leads some researchers to suggest further study.
Laundry detergent pods are popular and convenient household products. Potential effects of biting into a laundry detergent pod include coughing, choking, trouble breathing, and coma. The detergent also can irritate the skin and burn the eyes.
More and more household cleaning products are found in spray bottles. More and more children are being poisoned by those products. Cleaning products in spray bottles are now the leading source of cleaning products that poison children. Most injuries are to the eyes and head. It's important to wash the skin and eyes right away with lots of running water.
A clean home provides a healthy environment for your family, but household cleaning products can contain hazardous chemicals. It's important to be aware of the most common cleaner ingredients, what they are intended (and not intended) to do, and how to use them safely.
Povidone is found in both medical and household items and can cause mild symptoms with large ingestions. Povidone iodine is a common antiseptic used to disinfect the skin, eyes, and vagina. When used correctly, povidone iodine might cause mild side effects, but it can cause major problems when used incorrectly.
Natural gas is a gaseous hydrocarbon mixture with methane serving as the main gas. Methane is a simple asphyxiant that displaces oxygen in the air. If the methane concentration is high enough, the result is hypoxia and asphyxia (suffocation). If you suspect a natural gas leak, leave the building and contact the gas company. If people are sick, call Poison Control.
Dish soap contains ingredients that help with hand-washing dishes, household cleaning, and removing oils from the skin. It can also be helpful when treating poison ivy. If swallowed, it can cause nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. If splashed in the eyes, it can cause eye irritation. Dish soap should not be mixed with other household products as this can produce dangerous fumes.
Melioidosis is a serious infection caused by the bacteria Burkholderia pseudomallei. Humans can be exposed to the bacteria through contact with contaminated water or soil in tropical countries. In 2021, an outbreak of melioidosis occurred in the United States due to contaminated aromatherapy spray.
Ammonia is a chemical that can be naturally or artificially produced. The toxicity of ammonia depends on its concentration. Most household products containing ammonia are safe when used as directed, but some have the potential to cause burns. Industrial products are typically more concentrated and more likely to cause burns.
Liquid drain cleaners contain potentially poisonous acidic or basic compounds, enzymes, and bacteria that are effective in clearing clogged drains. Since many drain cleaners contain highly concentrated corrosive chemicals, they must be used with great caution. Consumption of non-enzymatic drain cleaners can result in serious burns, permanent tissue damage, and even death.
Laundry fragrance boosters are scented, dissolvable beads intended to extend the smell of fresh laundry for weeks beyond the wash date. Currently available products are relatively safe even when swallowed by children.
Cleaning wipes are available for a variety of surfaces. Since they are meant to be used with bare hands, they are mostly water and are not commonly associated with toxicity.
Household bleach is used for cleaning and disinfecting and can also be used in “bleach baths” as a medical treatment for atopic dermatitis. Swallowing, inhaling, or injecting bleach can cause serious medical problems.
Borax is a mineral-based compound that contains boron. It is commonly used as an industrial chemical, food preservative, and household cleaning product. Borax is not intended for human consumption, and may cause toxic effects when swallowed, inhaled, or applied to the skin. There is minimal evidence supporting the use of borax as an anti-inflammatory agent in humans.
Caustic products cause burns on contact with skin, eyes, and the gastrointestinal tract. More than other household products, caustic substances do their damage instantly. Injury cannot be reversed, only treated.
Automatic dishwashing detergents (ADDs) are available as powders, liquids, tablets, and pods. Exposure to ADDs is common and often results in irritation. Severe effects, such as burns and tissue damage, can also occur depending on the type of ADD, the amount, and the duration of exposure.
Chlorine is a chemical element that takes the form of a gas at room temperature. It can cause burning and irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat, and can lead to coughing or lung injury. Chlorine gas mixed with water forms hypochlorite, which is found in bleach. Mixing bleach with an acid forms chlorine gas. If you inhale chlorine gas, leave the area immediately and breathe fresh air.
A variety of cleaning products are available to maintain wood floors. Wood floor cleaners are usually based on hydrocarbons, detergents, or glycol ether solvents. Each type carries its own precautions and potential adverse effects. Floor cleaners can also contain alcohol, weak acids, or alkaline chemicals to strengthen their cleaning properties.
The same qualities that make oven and grill cleaners desirable and effective–dissolving tough, baked-on food and grease–also make them poisonous. Oven and grill cleaners often have a high pH, making them alkaline corrosives. Upon contact, via any route, they can cause tissue damage, burns and, at the very least, irritation.
Liquid laundry detergent, a common cleaning item found in nearly every home, contains ingredients that may be harmful if mishandled. Detergents in any formulation (liquid, powder, or pods) may cause allergic reactions in some people, ranging mild skin rash to severe difficulty breathing. These reactions usually resolve quickly with treatment.
There are many sources of bad smells in and around the home including spoiled food, mold, volatile organic chemicals, leaky or backed-up pipes and drains, and pet odors. Mixing some household cleaners such as bleach and ammonia or acid can produce toxic fumes. Some toxic fumes such as carbon monoxide are odorless. Symptoms of toxicity will depend on the gas.
Windex products are designed for cleaning glass, outdoor furniture, and hard surfaces. There are many different formulations of Windex. The ingredients vary between products, but they typically contain surfactants, solvents, and dyes. These chemicals are irritating when swallowed and can cause unwanted signs and symptoms including vomiting and abdominal pain.
Children get into all kinds of home laundry products. Some can cause irritation, from mild to painful: stain removers, pre-treatment agents, liquid and powder detergents, and fabric softeners. A few can cause burns or even death, such as rust remover and laundry pods. Bleach generally causes mild effects except for newer, concentrated bleach products.
We use sunscreens to protect our skin from the sun's harmful rays. In some cases though, the use of sunscreen can result in allergic reactions or photoallergic dermatitis. Fortunately, in most cases, the rash is self-limiting and can be prevented in the future by avoiding use of certain sunscreen products.
Povidone is found in both medical and household items and can cause mild symptoms with large ingestions. Povidone iodine is a common antiseptic used to disinfect the skin, eyes, and vagina. When used correctly, povidone iodine might cause mild side effects, but it can cause major problems when used incorrectly.
Even when hair dyes are used correctly, they can cause toxicity. Skin damage and allergic reactions are well documented. Eye exposure can cause a range of toxicities from mild irritation to loss of vision. Accidental swallowing can cause irritation or injury to the mouth and stomach as well as life-threatening allergic reactions.
Many types of lip products are available for cosmetic and medical purposes. They come in various colors, scents, and forms to fit the user’s needs and preferences. Despite how colorful and fragrant these products are, it is important that they are not eaten or swallowed.
Boric acid has antibacterial and antifungal properties, and boric acid suppositories are used by some women to treat vaginal yeast infections. The suppositories are meant to be inserted directly into the vagina, and should not be swallowed. Consumption of large amounts of boric acid may result in gastrointestinal distress, kidney problems, or death.
Chlorhexidine is an antibacterial agent that is commonly used in dental and surgical settings. Lower concentration products sold over the counter do not typically cause serious problems, but people can have adverse effects and allergic reactions even with normal use.
Deodorants work by controlling odor, while antiperspirants reduce the amount of sweat released from the body. Although some people question whether these products cause cancer or other diseases, deodorants and antiperspirants are considered to be safe when used as directed.
Hydrocortisone belongs to a class of medicines called corticosteroids. It is available in various forms, including topical creams, pills, and suppositories. It is often used to treat eczema, hemorrhoids, bug bites, mild sunburns, and rashes. Because it might cause fetal harm, using hydrocortisone during pregnancy is not recommended.
Tea tree oil has been used as a "natural" remedy for a long time, especially for skin afflictions. There is very little scientific evidence that tea tree oil is effective for most skin conditions. It is poisonous if swallowed, so it should not be used in or around the mouth.
Some shampoos are formulated to be mild enough for babies. Some contain medically active ingredients. Shampoo is a minimally toxic product when used on the hair and scalp, but can cause symptoms if swallowed or splashed in the eye.
Mouthwash freshens your breath and helps maintain oral health. Ingredients vary and can include antimicrobial/antiseptic agents, fluoride, alcohol, sweetener, and a flavoring agent. Although you are meant to swish and spit mouthwash, swallowing a mouthful is not harmful. If you swallow a large amount, you may experience toxicity from alcohol and/or fluoride.
Chlorine dioxide and sodium chlorite are highly reactive disinfectants used to treat public water systems. They are also low-concentration ingredients in some mouthwash products. A sip is unlikely to cause anything beyond mild irritation, nausea, and short-term vomiting. Large amounts can oxidize red blood cells, making them incapable of carrying oxygen.
Most fragrance products contain alcohol, which can cause serious effects in children. Fragrance products can also cause skin irritation and allergic reactions, which will usually go away if you stop using the product.
Styptic pencils contain aluminum compounds and are used to stop bleeding. The most common use for styptic pencils is to treat small cuts caused by shaving. When applied to the skin, they harden or coagulate the surface of a wound. However, they are not meant to be consumed and may cause stomach upset or nausea if swallowed.
The bottom line for parents of infants and young children: products to prevent and treat diaper rash usually will not harm a child who swallows a small amount. The exception is talcum powder, which can be fatal if inhaled.
Sunscreens are generally considered safe. The risk of an adverse effect varies depending on which active ingredients are in the product. Sunscreens can sometimes cause skin irritation, rash, and allergic contact dermatitis. Toxicity is low if accidentally swallowed, applied to the eyes, or inhaled. Sunscreen can be applied to children 6 months of age and older.
Some hair-straightening products contain formaldehyde, a chemical that has been associated with short-term and long-term health problems. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is currently considering banning formaldehyde-based hair-straightening products because of safety concerns.
Genital desensitizers contain local anesthetics and are designed to numb the external genitalia to enhance sexual activities. When used in excess or too frequently, genital desensitizers can cause severe toxicity. Antidotes and medical treatments are available in hospital settings, but delays in seeking medical care can result in more severe symptoms or even death.
Soapmaking is a popular home activity, but potentially hazardous chemicals are often involved. Use of pre-made soap bases, or “melt and pour” products, is a safer way to make homemade soap.
Toothpaste usually contains fluoride. Swallowing it can cause an upset stomach. Although large amounts of fluoride can be toxic, small unintentional ingestions of over-the-counter, fluoride-containing toothpaste are unlikely to be toxic.
Baby oil contains mineral oil, which is odorless, colorless, and tasteless. Its main use is to moisturize the skin and keep it soft. Ingestion of baby oil is usually minimally toxic, but can cause diarrhea. A more serious complication is aspiration pneumonia, which occurs if baby oil is breathed into the lungs when swallowed.
Dry shampoo products are designed to absorb excess hair oils, mask odors, and add volume to hair. Some dry shampoo products might contain the chemical benzene, most likely as a contaminant. Although benzene exposure is associated with dangerous health effects, there is no evidence that occasional dry shampoo use is harmful to humans.
Botox, Dysport, and Xeomin injections are popular cosmetic procedures. These injections contain a small amount of botulinum toxin. This is the same toxin that causes botulism, but these products contain much less of the toxin than is needed to cause disease in humans.
Nail polish contains chemicals that may have dangerous health effects after high-dose or long-term exposures. There is no evidence that occasional application of nail polish is harmful to pregnant women or fetuses.
A hair relaxer is a cream or thick paste that chemically changes the texture of curly hair to make it straighter. If it is swallowed or comes into contact with the skin or eyes, hair relaxers can cause burns.
Natural products such as peppermint oil have many components. Menthol is the most abundant compound found in peppermint oil. Menthol can cause superficial irritation in small amounts and severe systemic symptoms in large amounts.
Certain brands of sunscreen have been found to contain benzene, but at concentrations low enough that they are not likely to cause any acute health effects. The use of sunscreen is still strongly recommended, but you should avoid products contaminated with benzene.
Carbamide peroxide is most commonly used as an ear wax removal agent, oral rinse, and in home teeth-whitening products. High concentrations of carbamide peroxide can cause serious burns. Rarely, life-threatening toxicity can occur when carbamide peroxide is swallowed and oxygen bubbles form in the body and block blood flow to tissues.
Hair chalks are a fun, temporary way that anyone can use to alter their hair color. Hair chalks are made of substances like bentonite, calcium carbonate, and mica with added pigment. They are considered minimally toxic and not expected to result in serious injury except in the case of allergic reactions in people who are sensitive to the dye.
Face makeup is loose or pressed powder containing silica, talc, and other ingredients. Blush and bronzer contain pigments to make skin look flushed or tan. Face powders are usually safe but can be irritating for people with sensitive skin. Loose powder poses a risk of lung injury if inhaled.
Misuse of denture creams containing zinc was the cause of zinc poisoning in some denture wearers. Problems with dental creams are uncommon; anyone with symptoms needs a complete evaluation to determine the cause.
Sunscreen and insect repellent can find their way into the eyes, causing pain and irritation. Immediate rinsing with running water is the best first aid.
Temporary lashes are attached above the natural eyelashes with a temporary adhesive, while semi-permanent lash extensions are attached to the natural lashes with cyanoacrylate, the adhesive in Super Glue. If either kind of adhesive is used incorrectly, it can cause injury.
Hair styling products are widely used. In general, they have a low risk of toxicity when used according to the instructions. Scalp, skin, or eye irritation are the most likely adverse effects.
When used as directed, hairspray is minimally toxic. Unintentional eye contact, inhalation, or ingestion of small amounts of hairspray might produce minor irritating effects. Irritation should improve by rinsing the eyes or mouth or getting fresh air. Deliberately swallowing or inhaling hairspray can be very dangerous.
Hydrogen peroxide is a highly reactive chemical available in several concentrations. Exposures to small amounts of household (3%) hydrogen peroxide usually only cause mild irritation. Higher concentrations can cause burns. Rarely, life-threatening effects can occur when oxygen bubbles from hydrogen peroxide travel to the circulatory system and block blood flow to tissue.
Toxic shock syndrome is a life-threatening disease caused by certain bacteria. People who have open wounds, who have had recent surgery, or who have devices within their bodies may be at risk for toxic shock syndrome.
Petrolatum is a common household product used in many medicated ointments. It is also used as a moisturizer. Petrolatum is generally considered nontoxic when consumed but should not be applied to the eye or within the nose due to risk of irritation or other side effects.
Nail polish is not poisonous if used as intended, though some ingredients can be harmful if ingested or with long-term inhalation. Symptoms of swallowing nail polish include nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain. If you get nail polish in your eye, rinse the eye for at least 15 minutes. If symptoms persist, Poison Control recommends you go to the emergency room.
Period underwear is marketed as an easy-to-use, sustainable, and safe alternative to menstrual pads and tampons. The underwear is crafted from natural and synthetic materials, including cotton, metal ions, and waterproof compounds. Although PFAS may be present in some types of period underwear, there is currently no proof that this is harmful to human health.
Personal lubricants come in many varieties but are generally safe when used correctly. The most common adverse effect from personal lubricants is irritation. Poisoning is unlikely, but depends on the specific active ingredients, the concentration of the active ingredients, and the amount and route of exposure. To prevent adverse effects, follow the manufacturer's guidelines for proper use.
Micellar water is a cosmetic product that is used to remove dirt, oil, and makeup from the face. Micellar water is made up of water mixed with soap, hydrating chemicals, and perfumes. If swallowed, it is unlikely that a small amount of micellar water will result in poisoning, but it may cause vomiting or diarrhea. Micellar water can also be irritating if it gets in the eyes.
Dextromethorphan is an over-the-counter cough suppressant found in more than 120 cough and cold products. Recreational abuse has become increasingly common and leads to approximately 6000 emergency room visits a year. Recreational users intentionally exceed recommended doses to experience heightened awareness, altered time perception, and visual hallucinations.
Acetaminophen is a very safe medicine when used in recommended doses to treat pain and fever. But too much acetaminophen can cause liver damage and even death. This has happened when parents didn't understand the concentration or measurements. New formulations of acetaminophen for children make it easier to give the correct dose.
Afrin contains oxymetazoline, an ingredient that causes temporary nasal blood vessel narrowing. When used as directed, it reduces nasal congestion. Frequent use of oxymetazoline can cause worsening of nasal congestion after usage is stopped. Some people may continuously use Afrin to avoid these worsening symptoms, and this is often described as “Afrin addiction”.
Just about everyone gets colds. Symptoms include a stuffy nose, cough, tiredness, sneezing, sore throat, and muscle aches. Symptoms last for up to two weeks. Most people get better on their own. Treatment is according to symptoms. In general, there is no reliable evidence that alternative medicines prevent or shorten colds.
Home remedies such as saline drops, gentle suctioning, humidity, and fluids are more effective than medicines for young children with coughs and colds. If home remedies don't work, consult the child's health care provider.
A broken mercury-containing thermometer can be toxic if the vapors are inhaled. The risk of poisoning from touching or swallowing mercury from a broken thermometer is low if appropriate clean-up measures are taken.
Fluoroquinolone antibiotics are associated with serious adverse effects. For this reason, they are not the preferred treatment for many infections, but still have an important role for resistant bacteria and in patients with allergies to other antibiotics.
Antibiotic overdoses are rarely dangerous, but stomach upset and diarrhea may occur. Taking the wrong antibiotic is a problem if someone is allergic to the drug. Misuse of antibiotics is a problem for many reasons: an infection might not be cured, antibiotic-resistant organisms can develop, or, if a specific antibiotic is needed, it might not be effective.
Benzonatate is an anesthetic drug and cough suppressant. When benzonatate capsules are swallowed, the medication acts directly on the lungs to reduce coughing. Benzonatate is only approved for use in individuals 10 years of age and older. Younger children who take benzonatate may experience serious toxicity or even death.
Propylhexedrine (Benzedrex) inhalers can be bought without a prescription for use as a nasal decongestant but can be abused to help study or to get high. They should not be used for these purposes.
Cough and cold medicines are no longer recommended for children under the age of four. Ipecac syrup is no longer recommended for anyone. Mercury thermometers are now known to be a possible health risk if they break.
Potatoes contain vitamin C and other nutrients. Some studies suggest that drinking potato juice may help reduce gastrointestinal distress, but there is no evidence that potato juice is effective in treating infections such as strep throat. Although some social media videos recommend placing potatoes in socks, this practice also has no proven health benefits.
Natural products such as peppermint oil have many components. Menthol is the most abundant compound found in peppermint oil. Menthol can cause superficial irritation in small amounts and severe systemic symptoms in large amounts.
There is no evidence that cough and cold medicines are safe or effective for young children. There IS evidence that children have been harmed by overdoses of these products. Problems include seizures, coma, and death.
Viral videos on social media promote a trend called “NyQuil™ chicken” that involves cooking chicken in cough and cold medication. This is dangerous and may result in poisoning, both from the ingredients in NyQuil™ and the undercooked chicken.
Vaporizers can add moisture and medication to the air. This can help people who have colds, flu, or allergies. However, medicated vaporizer liquids are poisonous to swallow.
Teflon flu is a condition caused by inhaling fumes from burning polymer products, usually nonstick cookware. While the symptoms are generally mild and self-limiting, they can be more serious in people with underlying lung problems and can be fatal to pet birds. Teflon flu can be easily prevented by using a few simple, safe cooking techniques.
Vicks VapoRub has been used for many years as a cough and cold remedy. While this product is relatively safe to use when applied to the skin as directed on the package label, it should not be consumed or applied to the insides of the eyes, ears, or nose. To reduce the risk of burns and serious tissue damage, Vicks VapoRub should never be heated in a microwave.
Fluvoxamine is a medication that has been used to treat obsessive compulsive disorder and depression. Recent clinical trials have shown that it may be effective for preventing hospitalizations and complications of COVID-19 infection, but it is not quite ready for prime time.
Turmeric is a popular spice that has been used for centuries as an herbal medicine due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Despite its popularity, turmeric is actually poorly absorbed by the human body. Although some have advocated for its use as a treatment for COVID-19, data to support the use of turmeric for COVID-19 are lacking.
Molnupiravir is an oral medication currently being investigated as a treatment for COVID-19 infection and has been shown to be safe and effective in clinical trials. The pharmaceutical company Merck recently applied for an EUA for molnupiravir from the US FDA.
Rapid home COVID-19 antigen tests contain a small amount of the toxic chemical sodium azide, but the risk of poisoning is low when these tests are used and disposed of properly.
Ivermectin has been safely used to treat parasites (such as heart and intestinal worms) in animals and is approved for use in humans for parasite infections, head lice, and rosacea. It has not been shown to be effective for preventing or treating COVID-19 infection and taking products not intended for human use may lead to serious adverse effects.
Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors target and reduce inflammation. One JAK inhibitor, baricitinib, is used to treat COVID-19 infection. The JAK inhibitor oclacitinib (Apoquel) has not been studied in humans and is not used to treat COVID-19 infection.
Two old drugs used for malaria, chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine, are being studied for their potential to treat coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID-19). Side effects from these drugs can be very serious and include irregular heart rhythms that can result in death. Check state COVID-19 website resources and telephone hotlines for more information about COVID-19 in your area.
Apoquel® is the brand name for oclacitinib, a medication approved for use in dogs to stop itching caused by many different reasons. This medication is similar to corticosteroids but, has fewer side effects. Oclacitinib is only indicated for use in dogs and is not for human consumption.
Cleaning wipes are available for a variety of surfaces. Since they are meant to be used with bare hands, they are mostly water and are not commonly associated with toxicity.
Paxlovid is an oral medication that recently received emergency use authorization from the FDA to prevent severe COVID-19 infection in high-risk individuals who test positive for the virus. While it is generally well tolerated, Paxlovid interacts with many commonly used medications, which can lead to toxicity.
Turmeric is a popular spice that has been used for centuries as an herbal medicine due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Despite its popularity, turmeric is actually poorly absorbed by the human body. Although some have advocated for its use as a treatment for COVID-19, data to support the use of turmeric for COVID-19 are lacking.
Hangovers are unpleasant symptoms that occur after the consumption of alcohol. Even though many products are marketed as hangover treatments, there is no cure for this condition. The best way to prevent a hangover is to avoid drinking excessive amounts of alcohol.
A borg, or “black out rage gallon”, typically contains a fifth of vodka, water, and liquid flavor enhancer. Borg drinking is popular among some college students, but consumption of the high amounts of alcohol often found in borgs can cause harmful health effects, similar to those resulting from heavy alcohol use or binge drinking.
There is some evidence that people who eat a lot of charred or very well done meat have a higher risk of cancer, particularly of the breast, prostate, colon, rectum, and pancreas. To minimize the potential risks, minimize both the amount of time that meat is cooked at high heat and the amount of smoke in contact with the meat.
Sodium is found in table salt, rock salt, pickling salt, and sea salt. Some condiments, like soy sauce, also contain large amounts of sodium. Sodium is essential to human health, but too much sodium is poisonous. Sodium poisoning can cause seizures, coma, and death.
Family, friends, delicious food...Thanksgiving is a happy time of year. Keep your gathering fun and healthy by following some simple guidelines for food preparation and home safety. Take a few minutes to review your Thanksgiving plans. And leave room for the pumpkin pie!
The characteristic odor of urine is likely due to the presence of volatile organic compounds, or VOC’s, which are eliminated from the body through the kidneys. Strong urine odors may be related to metabolic conditions, infections, or dehydration.
Bongkrekic acid is a deadly poison that is found in fermented food including wet noodles and presscake from China, Indonesia, and Mozambique. Bongkrekic acid attacks the mitochondria and can cause liver failure, kidney injury, and death. There is no safe dose of this poison.
Acrylamide is a chemical that can be created by cooking processes including baking, air frying, and toasting. Acrylamide is considered a probable human carcinogen based on the results of studies in laboratory animals. However, there is no substantive evidence linking dietary acrylamide consumption to cancer in humans.
Ethanol, found in alcoholic beverages, is safe for most adults in moderation. Excessive ethanol intake and consumption of other types of alcohol can be dangerous.
Warm temperatures, sunlight, and added nutrients can cause an overgrowth or “bloom” of algae in bodies of water. Some algae produce toxins that can poison people or animals when they swallow, swim in, or inhale the water or when they eat fish that live there.
Alkaline water has a high pH and contains electrolytes and minerals, and can be produced naturally or through a chemical reaction. Some people believe that drinking alkaline water can reduce the risk of developing cancer, heart disease, and other medical conditions, but there is little published data to support these claims.
Vinegar is a common ingredient in many foods. While there is some evidence that it has legitimate medicinal uses, vinegar can also cause injury if improperly used.
Prime drinks, including Prime Energy, Prime Hydration, and Prime UFC 300 are increasingly popular among children, adolescents, and young adults. Prime products contain coconut water and electrolytes; Prime Energy also contains 200 mg of caffeine per can. Because of its caffeine content, children, pregnant or lactating women, and those who are sensitive to the effects of caffeine should avoid consumption of Prime Energy.
MAO inhibitors are commonly used for the treatment of Parkinson's disease and depression. Serious medical conditions can occur if MAO inhibitors are used in higher doses or taken in overdose. In addition, people who take MAO inhibitors should avoid eating certain foods, to reduce their risk of unwanted side effects.
Mustard is a popular condiment, but it can cause allergic reactions in some people. Mustard oil is often used for cooking, but only essential mustard oil is approved for use in foods by the FDA.
There are many possible causes of food poisoning: bacteria, viruses, pesticides, natural toxins, molds, parasites, and more. There are so many types of food poisoning that there are many possible symptoms. Food poisoning is especially dangerous for infants, young children, elderly people, and those with chronic health conditions or weak immune systems.
Some ordinary kitchen ingredients can be harmful if children swallow large amounts. Examples include alcohol-based flavoring extracts, oil of wintergreen, and nutmeg. Poppy seeds can cause a positive drug screen if someone eats a lot shortly before a drug test.
When swallowed by dogs, chocolate can cause nausea, vomiting, tremors, and seizures. Effects can begin within a short time. Treatment should begin quickly. There are no specific antidotes for this poisoning in animals.
Halloween treats are great. Tricks are not! Go with your children when they trick-or-treat. Look at the goodies before they're eaten. Rinse liquid from glow sticks out of eyes if it's splashed. Drink some water if it's swallowed. And, stick to actual cosmetics meant for the skin when making up.
Needle spiking involves the secret injection of poisonous substances into unsuspecting individuals and represents a form of drug-facilitated crime. It is a scary concept but it is also fortunately a rare occurrence.
Baking soda is sodium bicarbonate. Both sodium and bicarbonate can cause serious toxicity if too much is taken. When swallowed, sodium bicarbonate rapidly makes a large volume of carbon dioxide, which can cause dangerous levels of pressure in the stomach.
Botulism is a rare but dangerous type of poisoning that affects the nervous system. Honey can contain botulism spores; these spores release a toxin that can poison infants. The most dangerous effect of botulism is paralysis of the diaphragm, which means the infants cannot breathe on their own without a ventilator until the disease is cured.
Raw shellfish can carry bacteria and parasites that can cause life-threatening infections in pregnant women and their unborn children. Avoid eating raw or undercooked shellfish, including oysters, if you are pregnant.
Skittles contain titanium dioxide, a chemical used as a whitening agent in foods. Titanium dioxide is associated with cancer development after inhalational exposures, and it may have effects on DNA and gastrointestinal system function.
Cannabis-infused drinks contain the mind-altering ingredient tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). These drinks, which can be purchased at dispensaries or online, contain various amounts of THC in addition to alcohol, caffeine, or other cannabis derivatives. The safety of these drinks has not been studied extensively in humans.
You are better off tossing potatoes that have turned green or grown sprouts. Eating them puts you at risk for toxicity from solanine and chaconine, 2 natural toxins found in green or sprouted potatoes.
The “curing” process involves the addition of nitrates and nitrites to meats. While swallowing large amounts of nitrates or nitrites can be dangerous, exposure to the levels typically present in meats is not likely to be harmful.
The pits of stone fruits like cherries naturally contain a cyanide-producing chemical. Small, unintentional ingestions of intact stone fruit pits generally do not cause harm. Crushing or chewing pits before swallowing can result in the release of cyanide. The use of stone fruit pits as complementary or alternative medicine is unsupported by scientific evidence.
Peach pits and other seeds from the plant family Prunus contain a potentially dangerous chemical called amygdalin that can creates poisonous cyanide when digested. While swallowing a single pit is unlikely to cause cyanide poisoning, consumption of several unprocessed pits can produce symptoms.
All parts of the horse chestnut tree are toxic, but the greatest concern is for horse chestnut seeds. These can be easily mistaken for edible chestnuts. Horse chestnut seed pods usually contain only one seed, while edible chestnut pods contain multiple seeds. Eating horse chestnuts can result in serious stomach upset.
Caffeine is a stimulant found in everyday beverages, such as soda and coffee. In recent years, energy drinks containing large amounts of caffeine and other herbal stimulants have become increasingly common on store shelves. While caffeine is generally safe in moderation, consuming large amounts of caffeine can be dangerous.
Arsenic is a known human poison, and can cause severe health effects after high-level or chronic exposures. Arsenic is present in rice and is also found in infant rice cereal. Fortunately, the relatively short duration of time in which infants are given rice cereal in their diets significantly reduces the risk of arsenic poisoning. In addition, providing a balanced diet can also help reduce an infant’s exposure to arsenic.
Xylitol is a sweetener that is safe for humans but poisonous to pets.
Powdered infant formula is not required to be sterile, and in rare cases it may be contaminated with bacteria. Cronobacter contamination of powdered infant formula can cause serious illness in infants, including meningitis and death.
Protein bars often contain compounds called sugar alcohols, which are lower in calories than traditional sugars. Sugar alcohols are associated with multiple gastrointestinal side effects including abdominal pain, bloating, and gas.
Cake decorations such as luster dust often add sparkle or color to sweet confections. While some cake decorating products are edible, others may contain heavy metals that can cause poisonous effects when swallowed.
Spiked beverages have become increasingly common. Although they usually do not contain a high percentage of alcohol, many of the brands and names are for products that traditionally have not contained alcohol. This can cause problems when children or unsuspecting adults consume them, believing they are non-alcoholic.
Halloween is a holiday synonymous with costume contests and consumption of sugary candy. Eating certain types of sweets, including black licorice and sugar free candy, may result in unwanted toxic effects for trick-or-treaters. Consumption of cannabis edibles or rainbow fentanyl, which may resemble familiar candy or snack products, can also cause dangerous toxicity.
When human skin is exposed to ultraviolet light and certain natural plant-derived substances, a skin condition called “phytophotodermatitis” can occur. This condition is frequently reported after skin exposure to the combination of sunlight and lime juice, and can include skin rashes, blistering, and dark pigmentation. Although it may be painful, phytophotodermatitis generally resolves on its own over time.
Potatoes contain vitamin C and other nutrients. Some studies suggest that drinking potato juice may help reduce gastrointestinal distress, but there is no evidence that potato juice is effective in treating infections such as strep throat. Although some social media videos recommend placing potatoes in socks, this practice also has no proven health benefits.
Capsaicin, the active ingredient in hot peppers, can be intensely irritating on the skin, in the eyes, to the stomach and gastrointestinal tract, and if inhaled.
Raw carrot salad is a social media trend, with videos promising hormone balance, fewer acne breakouts, and improved digestion after salad consumption. Carrots contain fiber that may help regulate digestion, but there is no proven association between raw carrot consumption and hormone balance. Additionally, eating large amounts of carrots may result in unwanted side effects.
The Paqui One Chip Challenge was a social media challenge that involved eating an extremely spicy tortilla chip. The chip contained capsaicin, a compound that causes mouth and throat pain but can also result in more serious health problems including trouble breathing, esophageal damage, and heart problems. The manufacturer started pulling the product from store shelves in September 2023, following a death of a healthy teenager hours after participated in the challenge.
Tart cherry juice contains naturally biologically active substances, including melatonin, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory compounds. In some studies, daily consumption of tart cherry juice was linked to improvements in sleep quality in adults, but there is no evidence that tart cherry juice is effective in treating sleep regression in children.
Raw chicken should be cooked in an oven to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Washing or rinsing chicken during food preparation can spread germs and increase the risk of illness. Salmonella, a common foodborne illness, causes self-limited gastrointestinal symptoms in most people, but certain individuals may develop severe infection.
Viral videos on social media promote a trend called “NyQuil™ chicken” that involves cooking chicken in cough and cold medication. This is dangerous and may result in poisoning, both from the ingredients in NyQuil™ and the undercooked chicken.
Ciguatera poisoning is caused by eating fish that have themselves eaten fish contaminated with a toxin called ciguatoxin. Ciguatoxin cannot be detected by taste or appearance or prevented by cooking or freezing the fish. Treatment is available, but symptoms can last for months or years.
E. coli is a normal gut bacterium, but there are several types that cause food poisoning. Sources include contaminated water, raw or undercooked ground meat, unpasteurized milk, raw vegetables, fecal-oral transmission, and food handlers. Most types of E. coli cause diarrhea (watery or bloody). Vomiting, abdominal cramps, fever, and kidney failure are also possible symptoms. The best treatment is hydration.
Onions are pungent, contain plentiful nutrients, and have many potential health benefits. When cut or damaged, onions can cause eye irritation and tear production due to the formation of a sulfur-containing chemical (called “lachrymatory factor”).
The “internal shower” drink popularized by TikTok contains chia seeds, lemon juice, and water, and is reported to help bowel function. Although the nutritional benefits of chia are well-recognized, adverse health effects may occur after chia seed consumption.
Scombroid poisoning occurs when people eat fish that were not properly stored. The appearance and taste of the fish is usually normal and cooking or freezing the fish cannot prevent scombroid. Scombroid poisoning can be scary and uncomfortable, but most people recover with simple treatment.
Teflon flu is a condition caused by inhaling fumes from burning polymer products, usually nonstick cookware. While the symptoms are generally mild and self-limiting, they can be more serious in people with underlying lung problems and can be fatal to pet birds. Teflon flu can be easily prevented by using a few simple, safe cooking techniques.
Matcha is a bright green powder that is often mixed with hot water to form a tea. Because it has a sweet, non-bitter taste, matcha is also used as an additive in desserts and other foods. Matcha contains high amounts of L-theanine and other compounds that may have beneficial effects on inflammation, metabolism, and gut health.
Listeria monocytogenes is a bacterial species that causes foodborne illness in humans. Listeria infection can occur after consumption of contaminated meats, dairy products, and produce. Pregnant women, children, and people with compromised immune systems are at high risk for severe complications of Listeria infection.
Norovirus is a contagious illness that causes vomiting and diarrhea in both adults and children. Norovirus can be transmitted through contact with an infected person’s vomit or feces, and can also spread through contaminated foods. Hand washing with soap and water can help prevent the spread of norovirus, and infection is typically self-limited.
Lycopene is a carotenoid − a natural pigment that gives some vegetables and fruits their red color. There are several published studies that evaluate whether lycopene in tomato products or supplements could have protective effects against prostate cancer and cardiovascular disease. However, there is not enough evidence to say that lycopene provides such health benefits.
Xylazine, also known as "tranq," is a powerful animal tranquilizer. Although it is not intended for human use, xylazine is a common contaminant of illicit drugs in the U.S. It can worsen toxic effects of some drugs. Xylazine use causes sleepiness and a slow respiratory rate and might result in development of necrotic skin wounds (skin wounds with dead tissue).
Chelonitoxism is a rare and potentially life-threatening disease that occurs due to consumption of contaminated sea turtle meat. There is no known antidote for chelonitoxism, but the disease can be prevented by avoiding the consumption of raw or cooked sea turtles.
Natural gas is a gaseous hydrocarbon mixture with methane serving as the main gas. Methane is a simple asphyxiant that displaces oxygen in the air. If the methane concentration is high enough, the result is hypoxia and asphyxia (suffocation). If you suspect a natural gas leak, leave the building and contact the gas company. If people are sick, call Poison Control.
Children get into gasoline most often in the summertime. If they're outside the car at the gas station, they get splashed; this can irritate the eyes or skin. If someone transfers gas to a food or drink container, kids drink it. Drinking gasoline can lead to gagging on it; this can lead to pneumonia and lung damage.
Torch fuel can look like apple juice. Making that mistake has cost people their lives.
Lamp oil can provide warm, glowing light. If swallowed, however, lamp oil can cause serious injury that might not be apparent right away.
Motor oil can be very harmful if swallowed and aspirated into the lungs. Patients with respiratory symptoms after ingesting motor oil need to go to an ER for help. Used motor oil has contaminants, but a one-time exposure is unlikely to cause toxicity.
Hydrocarbons include baby oil, mineral oil, household lubricating oil, lamp oil, torch fuel, lighter fluid, gasoline, kerosene, motor oil, heating oil, hair oil, and some kinds of furniture polish. These slippery liquids easily can be breathed into someone's lungs when they try to swallow them. This can cause pneumonia and death.
There are many sources of bad smells in and around the home including spoiled food, mold, volatile organic chemicals, leaky or backed-up pipes and drains, and pet odors. Mixing some household cleaners such as bleach and ammonia or acid can produce toxic fumes. Some toxic fumes such as carbon monoxide are odorless. Symptoms of toxicity will depend on the gas.
Siphoning gasoline can lead to aspiration, gasoline entering the lungs. This can cause pneumonia, coma, and death.
Turmeric is a popular spice that has been used for centuries as an herbal medicine due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Despite its popularity, turmeric is actually poorly absorbed by the human body. Although some have advocated for its use as a treatment for COVID-19, data to support the use of turmeric for COVID-19 are lacking.
5-HTP, which comes from tryptophan found in our diet, is the precursor of serotonin. It is available as a supplement and has appealed to researchers and the public for the treatment of depression, anxiety, insomnia, and a wide range of other conditions. To date, evidence of its effectiveness has been inconclusive and there are important safety concerns.
A Myers' cocktail contains vitamins and electrolytes and is used to treat various medical conditions. Although the ingredients are natural and seemingly safe, this treatment is associated with adverse effects and there is limited evidence supporting the benefits of its use.
Aconitum napellus flowers look beautiful, but swallowing any part of the plant could be deadly.
Many people believe homeopathic remedies are safe because they are natural and contain a small amount of active ingredient. However, homeopathic products are not uniformly regulated, and homeopathy is not a standardized medical practice. Inconsistencies in final product formulations and practitioner certifications can lead to dangerous consequences.
When used for fertility regulation or abortion, herbal preparations may cause significant side effects. Liver damage, breathing difficulties, and death can occur after use of herbal products for contraception or pregnancy termination.
The California poppy (Echscholzia californica) has been used as an herbal product and can be purchased as as capsules, tablets, loose leaves for tea, and an extract. The plant contains several alkaloids which some believe can help with sleep, anxiety, and pain. However, there are no useful studies conducted in humans that support these claims.
Glucosamine is a natural substance found in cartilage. In the US, it is sold as a dietary supplement and promoted to reduce osteoarthritis pain. It is generally safe and well-tolerated. However, strong scientific evidence showing that it actually works is lacking and dietary supplements are not regulated in the same vigorous manner as medications.
N-acetylcysteine may have a role in detoxification, immune function, and cellular health, and is often used as a dietary supplement. More research is needed to better understand how N-acetylcysteine can affect human health.
Just about everyone gets colds. Symptoms include a stuffy nose, cough, tiredness, sneezing, sore throat, and muscle aches. Symptoms last for up to two weeks. Most people get better on their own. Treatment is according to symptoms. In general, there is no reliable evidence that alternative medicines prevent or shorten colds.
Omega-3 fatty acids are associated with many health benefits. While omega-3 fatty acids may reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease, more studies are needed to better define the precise details of this relationship.
Hawthorn has long been used in Chinese and Western medicine to treat various illnesses. The most studied use of hawthorn is for congestive heart failure (CHF). Its effectiveness for CHF and other conditions is limited, but so is its toxicity. However, it is always best to consult with your primary care provider and pharmacist before starting any herbal regimen to avoid any potential interactions with prescription or over-the-counter medications.
Valerian is an herbal dietary supplement sold over-the-counter (OTC) for its sedative and calming effects. It is generally considered safe and well-tolerated; however, scientific evidence showing its effectiveness is inconclusive.
Some herbal medicines and dietary supplements can affect blood clotting. This can complicate surgery and recovery if patients and doctors don't discuss ALL the medicines a patient is taking.
To date, there are no definite answers about how well melatonin works, how safe it is when taken for long periods, or what constitutes a melatonin overdose.
Tea tree oil has been used as a "natural" remedy for a long time, especially for skin afflictions. There is very little scientific evidence that tea tree oil is effective for most skin conditions. It is poisonous if swallowed, so it should not be used in or around the mouth.
There is a lot of information about avoiding drugs, alcohol, and tobacco while pregnant. There are some other poisons to be aware of if you're pregnant, including herbal medications, supplements, lead, and carbon monoxide.
There are nearly 1500 documented interactions between drugs, herbal medicines, and dietary supplements. These interactions can cause a wide variety of harmful effects. Taking an herb or supplement could change the way a prescription medicine works in the body, causing symptoms like an overdose. Or, it might cause the medicine not to work at all.
Lutein, a nutrient found mainly in leafy green vegetables, is thought to protect against light-induced retina damage. While some studies show positive results from lutein use, more research is needed to determine its definitive benefits and safety.
Ginkgo biloba is used by many people in an effort to improve memory and slow age-related intellectual decline, but solid evidence to support these benefits is limited. Ginkgo biloba is generally considered safe, but it can cause adverse effects and interactions with other drugs.
Clenbuterol is a medication used to treat asthma and COPD in some countries, but it is not FDA-approved for human use in the United States. It is widely misused for possible anabolic and fat-burning effects, which have only been shown in animals. Clenbuterol causes toxicity at low doses. Symptoms include tremors, high heart rate, low blood potassium, seizures, and cardiac arrest.
Sleep deprivation is a common condition among US adults. Non-drug approaches should be tried first. Medicines for sleep include prescription agents, OTC drugs, and dietary supplements. Many sleep aids can cause dependence or next-day drowsiness. Dietary supplements and herbals promoted to help sleep are not approved by the FDA as safe or effective.
Apetamin, which contains cyproheptadine, lysine, and vitamins, is marketed as a quick, non-surgical method of body enhancement. Although it is not approved by the FDA, it is illicitly sold online and on social media platforms in the United States. There is no standard dosing of apetamin, and its ingredients are linked to liver damage and other dangerous side effects.
Morning sickness is common during pregnancy and can lead to severe complications for some women. Fortunately, there are multiple treatment options available, including both prescription and non-prescription medications.
Many weight loss supplements contain ingredients that are contaminated, ineffective, dangerous, or actually illegal. Some people become ill after taking these products. Some have interactions with medicines. It can be hard to get your money back. Worst of all, these products often don't help.
Arnica is used as a flavoring for food and drinks and as a homeopathic treatment for many ailments. It is fairly safe when used for short periods or in very diluted forms. However, eating the plant, the topical creams or ointments, or the plant extracts or oils can result in serious poisoning.
Pre-workout supplements can contain caffeine and other ingredients which can be poisonous when taken in large amounts. Dry scooping, or consumption of undiluted pre-workout powder, can be life-threatening.
Vitamin D is important for healthy bone function and may have effects on other disease processes. Vitamin D deficiency is common, especially in people who do not have regular exposure to sunlight or who have chronic medical conditions. Use of vitamin D supplements can help improve vitamin D levels in deficient individuals.
Kombucha tea is a slightly effervescent, slightly alcoholic liquid for which many health claims are made. Home-brewed kombucha tea has been associated with several adverse health events. There are no scientific studies to support the many health claims made for kombucha tea, though it has a long history of use.
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children be fed only with breast milk or formula until at least four to six months of age. Children have developed seizures and infections from herbal teas and remedies, lead poisoning and mercury poisoning from traditional remedies, and liver damage from dietary supplements.
"Natural" does not always mean "safe." Like all medicines, herbal products and supplements are expected to have some side effects, and ginseng is no exception. Some side effects are related to the natural toxicity of the plants they come from or from problems in manufacturing.
Essential oils are derived from plant parts. Because they have a scent, essential oils are often used in perfumes, cosmetics, room fresheners, and flavorings. Many have a history of medicinal use, too. Misuse of essential oils can cause serious poisoning.
Thyroid hormones can be found in prescription medications and in some over-the-counter weight-loss supplements. Thyroid hormones should not be used for routine weight loss.
Peppermint oil is an aromatic and flavoring agent that contains up to 50% menthol. While it is promoted for many ailments, studies showing effectiveness are primarily for some digestive tract illnesses. If small amounts are swallowed, inhaled, or applied to skin or eyes, it can cause irritation and burning. Large doses can cause serious toxicity due to the menthol.
Lycopene is a carotenoid − a natural pigment that gives some vegetables and fruits their red color. There are several published studies that evaluate whether lycopene in tomato products or supplements could have protective effects against prostate cancer and cardiovascular disease. However, there is not enough evidence to say that lycopene provides such health benefits.
White mulberry is a leafy tree that grows across the United States. The leaves contain considerable amounts of fiber and protein, and white mulberry leaf extracts are used as a dietary supplement for management of blood sugar, weight, and other conditions. White mulberry is generally associated with few adverse effects in humans.
Multiple medications, including dietary supplements, can cause fatigue or other mood disorders. People with excessive fatigue, depression, or anxiety should seek medical care for further evaluation, including a review of all medications and supplements used.
Kava kava is an herbal product sold over the counter for its possible calming effect. Recently, the FDA has offered recommendations on restricting kava kava in some groups because certain formulations might cause liver damage.
Melatonin occurs naturally in the body and is involved in the natural regulation of sleep. Melatonin is sometimes used as a dietary supplement to help people sleep. Like other dietary supplements, there are few studies that have examined its effectiveness. Toxicity from melatonin appears to be mild.
Pennyroyal oil is an herbal extract from a plant in the mint family and has been used for centuries as a folk remedy. Pennyroyal oil is highly toxic, and its use has resulted in severe illness, liver failure, and death.
We use sunscreens to protect our skin from the sun's harmful rays. In some cases though, the use of sunscreen can result in allergic reactions or photoallergic dermatitis. Fortunately, in most cases, the rash is self-limiting and can be prevented in the future by avoiding use of certain sunscreen products.
Family, friends, delicious food...Thanksgiving is a happy time of year. Keep your gathering fun and healthy by following some simple guidelines for food preparation and home safety. Take a few minutes to review your Thanksgiving plans. And leave room for the pumpkin pie!
Lionfish are invasive, meat-eating fish that reproduce quickly. They have spread to non-native waters and can quickly destroy reef ecosystems. They have defensive spines on the top and bottom of their bodies that can cause painful stings. Symptoms following lionfish stings can include swelling, tenderness, redness, sweating, and muscle weakness.
A number of holiday decorations and treats can be hazards to a pet's health. Batteries can cause internal burns, water from tree stands and left-over food can contain bacteria, and decorations and plants can be choking hazards. Also, human medicines may be more easily in reach.
Halloween treats are great. Tricks are not! Go with your children when they trick-or-treat. Look at the goodies before they're eaten. Rinse liquid from glow sticks out of eyes if it's splashed. Drink some water if it's swallowed. And, stick to actual cosmetics meant for the skin when making up.
Stingrays have long, thin, whip-like tails equipped with one to three barbed venomous spinal blades. Although they are generally shy, they may strike when unintentionally stepped on. Their venom causes intense pain, but the main risk of a stingray injury is the puncture wound. Hot water immersion and good wound care are central to managing stingray injuries.
Holi is a colorful spring Hindu festival. Part of the celebration is throwing brightly colored powders into the air and onto others. These powders should be from safe and natural sources, but some contain metals and other potentially dangerous substances. Safely enjoy your Holi celebrations by covering your skin, eyes, nose, and mouth.
The poinsettia plant is often considered deadly. That's wrong. Poinsettia can be irritating but it is not fatal if eaten. If children and pets eat it, they can develop a mouth rash and stomach upset. The sap can cause a skin rash, too.
Bubble lights may contain methylene chloride. If swallowed or absorbed through the skin, methylene chloride becomes carbon monoxide inside the body.
Christmas tree preservatives aren't necessary. Commercial preservatives may cause stomach upset and vomiting in children and pets who swallow them. Home-made preservatives may contain ingredients that are harmful to children and pets.
Glass Christmas ornaments can be attractive to young children and can break easily. Stepping or crawling on the glass is a problem, but some ornaments also contain lead, mercury, or methylene chloride, which can poison children if they touch, taste, or swallow them. Even though they are sharp, small glass pieces usually pass through the digestive tract uneventfully.
Liquid from glow sticks can cause alarming eye pain but rarely cause injury.
Fireplace flame color enhancers may contain heavy metals and/or caustic agents. Fire gel starter may contain methanol or hydrocarbons; both are toxic in small quantities. Fires can release poisonous carbon monoxide into the air.
When used responsibly, fireworks are a fun way to celebrate with friends and family. Unfortunately, serious injuries, poisonings, and fatalities can occur when they are mishandled, unintentionally swallowed, or when they malfunction. For this reason, it is extremely important to understand the risks and follow safety guidelines when handling them.
Over the river and through the woods, to grandmother's house - or maybe on a cruise - or perhaps to a hotel in a new city or a foreign country? Wherever your destination for the holidays, by automobile, plane, ship or sleigh, a little planning will help keep holiday travel safe and enjoyable.
Keep a poisoning mishap from ruining your winter holiday festivities! Some winter holiday poisoning hazards include carbon monoxide, tiny magnet toys, some decorations and plants, food poisoning, alcohol, THC edibles, prescription medicines in the wrong hands, and button batteries found in toys, key fobs, singing cards, and other items.
Keep your children safe during travel and holiday events by following seasonal tips from Poison Control.
Mistletoe has a reputation for being deadly, but is that reputation deserved? Until recent studies were published, the American mistletoe genus, Phoradendron, was widely considered to be extremely poisonous. Swallowing American mistletoe can cause symptoms such as gastrointestinal upset but is not likely to cause serious poisoning in small, unintentional ingestions.
A Myers' cocktail contains vitamins and electrolytes and is used to treat various medical conditions. Although the ingredients are natural and seemingly safe, this treatment is associated with adverse effects and there is limited evidence supporting the benefits of its use.
Many people believe homeopathic remedies are safe because they are natural and contain a small amount of active ingredient. However, homeopathic products are not uniformly regulated, and homeopathy is not a standardized medical practice. Inconsistencies in final product formulations and practitioner certifications can lead to dangerous consequences.
Melioidosis is a serious infection caused by the bacteria Burkholderia pseudomallei. Humans can be exposed to the bacteria through contact with contaminated water or soil in tropical countries. In 2021, an outbreak of melioidosis occurred in the United States due to contaminated aromatherapy spray.
Hawthorn has long been used in Chinese and Western medicine to treat various illnesses. The most studied use of hawthorn is for congestive heart failure (CHF). Its effectiveness for CHF and other conditions is limited, but so is its toxicity. However, it is always best to consult with your primary care provider and pharmacist before starting any herbal regimen to avoid any potential interactions with prescription or over-the-counter medications.
Tea tree oil has been used as a "natural" remedy for a long time, especially for skin afflictions. There is very little scientific evidence that tea tree oil is effective for most skin conditions. It is poisonous if swallowed, so it should not be used in or around the mouth.
Saunas are known for promoting relaxation and may also have beneficial effects on immunity, inflammation, and cardiovascular health. While saunas are generally safe to use for most people, sauna exposure can result in dehydration, low blood pressure, and even sudden death in susceptible individuals.
Berberine is a natural chemical found in certain plants, including goldenseal. Berberine is sometimes described as “Nature’s Ozempic” because of its reported beneficial effects on metabolism and blood sugar, but berberine is not the same as semaglutide (Ozempic). There is no standard dose of berberine, and berberine should be avoided during pregnancy and lactation.
Smelling salts contain ammonia-based chemicals, and are used to help revive people who have fainted or are lightheaded. When inhaled, the chemicals in smelling salts cause nose and throat irritation as well as temporary increases in heart rate. While smelling salts are generally safe when used as directed, prolonged inhalation may result in permanent lung damage or death.
Arnica is used as a flavoring for food and drinks and as a homeopathic treatment for many ailments. It is fairly safe when used for short periods or in very diluted forms. However, eating the plant, the topical creams or ointments, or the plant extracts or oils can result in serious poisoning.
Borax is a mineral-based compound that contains boron. It is commonly used as an industrial chemical, food preservative, and household cleaning product. Borax is not intended for human consumption, and may cause toxic effects when swallowed, inhaled, or applied to the skin. There is minimal evidence supporting the use of borax as an anti-inflammatory agent in humans.
Potatoes contain vitamin C and other nutrients. Some studies suggest that drinking potato juice may help reduce gastrointestinal distress, but there is no evidence that potato juice is effective in treating infections such as strep throat. Although some social media videos recommend placing potatoes in socks, this practice also has no proven health benefits.
Most homeopathic medications are not poisonous IF they are diluted correctly and don't contain alcohol. Some homeopathic products have caused toxicity, adverse reactions, and allergic reactions. Others don't contain any active ingredients and may not be appropriate treatment for a condition. FDA does not evaluate homeopathic
While colloidal silver has been promoted as an alternative or folk remedy, there is no evidence that it is effective. It can cause significant toxicity, particularly with long term use.
The “internal shower” drink popularized by TikTok contains chia seeds, lemon juice, and water, and is reported to help bowel function. Although the nutritional benefits of chia are well-recognized, adverse health effects may occur after chia seed consumption.
Eucalyptus oil’s medical uses include as a treatment for respiratory and skin conditions, as well as for pain. It is also used in household cleaners and insect repellents. It is usually inhaled or applied to the skin in a diluted form. Pure eucalyptus oil can cause irritation and burning of mouth, digestive tract, skin, and eyes. Eucalyptus oil should never be ingested, and even a small dose can cause seizures, coma, and death.
Zinc is a natural mineral found in food. It has recently gained popularity as an immune supplement for COVID-19 but has also been explored as a preventative or therapeutic option for acne and colds. Zinc is generally safe and can typically be taken while pregnant or breastfeeding, but it can be toxic in high amounts. In addition, zinc can interact with some medications.
Ibuprofen, naproxen, and aspirin are non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). They are used to treat pain, fever, and inflammation. They are also found in combination products such as cough and cold medicines. An overdose of these medications may cause stomach upset, abdominal pain, and vomiting, kidney damage, ulcers, bleeding, seizures, and coma.
Ibuprofen is a pain medication available both over-the-counter and by prescription. It works by blocking substances produced by the body that stimulate pain and inflammation. While generally considered safe with routine use, ibuprofen increases the risk of stomach ulcers, bleeding, and kidney problems.
So many poison prevention stories are about children, but when it comes to home remodeling, adults are at risk, too. Children, adults, and pets can become sick if home renovations are not carried out carefully.
More and more household cleaning products are found in spray bottles. More and more children are being poisoned by those products. Cleaning products in spray bottles are now the leading source of cleaning products that poison children. Most injuries are to the eyes and head. It's important to wash the skin and eyes right away with lots of running water.
Unintentionally swallowing a few match tips is not dangerous but would be expected to cause some minor irritation to the mouth and stomach. Swallowing a large number of matches can cause serious effects including damage to red blood cells and organs such as the kidneys and liver.
While there have been concerns about contaminated drywall emitting sulfurous gases, there is little evidence to show that uncontaminated drywall is linked to serious health risks.
Candida auris is a fungus that causes human disease, including sepsis and other infections. It can easily spread among individuals because it persists on environmental surfaces and survives common disinfecting processes. Candida auris infections can be challenging to treat, as they are often resistant to commonly available medications.
Natural gas is a gaseous hydrocarbon mixture with methane serving as the main gas. Methane is a simple asphyxiant that displaces oxygen in the air. If the methane concentration is high enough, the result is hypoxia and asphyxia (suffocation). If you suspect a natural gas leak, leave the building and contact the gas company. If people are sick, call Poison Control.
There are various kinds of caulking compounds on the market, each geared to a specific kind of project. Most caulks are made up of acrylic, latex, silicone, or a combination of all three. In general, caulk is only a mild irritant.
Secondhand smoke is smoke breathed in by people other than active smokers. Secondhand smoke can cause lung cancer, heart disease, and stroke in adults. Infants and children may experience respiratory problems, lung and ear infections, and other ailments. Secondhand smoke is not safe in pregnancy as it can increase the risk of miscarriage, low birth weight, and premature birth.
Dish soap contains ingredients that help with hand-washing dishes, household cleaning, and removing oils from the skin. It can also be helpful when treating poison ivy. If swallowed, it can cause nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. If splashed in the eyes, it can cause eye irritation. Dish soap should not be mixed with other household products as this can produce dangerous fumes.
Taste aversive agents are unpleasant tasting substances often added to potentially dangerous chemicals with the intent of preventing poisoning from accidental ingestion by humans or pets. They are also used in over-the-counter products to help discourage nail-biting and thumb sucking; however, there is no evidence indicating that their usage decreases the incidence or severity of poisonings.
Acrylamide is a chemical that can be created by cooking processes including baking, air frying, and toasting. Acrylamide is considered a probable human carcinogen based on the results of studies in laboratory animals. However, there is no substantive evidence linking dietary acrylamide consumption to cancer in humans.
The toxic effects of air fresheners differ depending on the formulation. Inhaling small amounts of most air fresheners is usually not dangerous. Swallowing the gel-type evaporative beads or reed diffuser solutions can cause serious effects. There are also concerns about the adverse effects of repeated air freshener use on the environment and the body’s health.
Ice packs are common household items, which makes them accessible to small children. There are many different types of reusable ice packs. Typically, unintentionally swallowing some of their liquid contents causes minor effects such as mouth irritation. However, depending on the ingredients and the amount swallowed, ice packs do have the potential to cause toxicity.
Fumes from heated metal and burning plastic products can cause flu-like illnesses in people and animals. People who weld metals at work are at risk, as are those who overheat PTFE (Teflon)-coated cookware. Getting away from the source of the fumes is the most important treatment.
Laundry fragrance boosters are scented, dissolvable beads intended to extend the smell of fresh laundry for weeks beyond the wash date. Currently available products are relatively safe even when swallowed by children.
Mouthwash freshens your breath and helps maintain oral health. Ingredients vary and can include antimicrobial/antiseptic agents, fluoride, alcohol, sweetener, and a flavoring agent. Although you are meant to swish and spit mouthwash, swallowing a mouthful is not harmful. If you swallow a large amount, you may experience toxicity from alcohol and/or fluoride.
When used as directed, bath bombs and bath fizzies are safe. Skin irritation can occur in some people, and eye irritation is expected to occur if splashed in the eyes. Unintentional ingestion of small amounts is expected to cause minor effects such as oral irritation, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Ant bait products are usually a combination of a food attractive to ants and an insecticide. Generally, unintentional exposures to ant baits pose little risk of toxicity due to their low concentration. Toddlers who taste ant bait products might develop nausea and vomiting. Contact with the skin or eyes can cause irritation.
Children will swallow anything they can reach. Most of the time, these objects pass through the gastrointestinal tract with no trouble; the object turns up in the child's stool. Sometimes, surgery is needed to remove the object(s). In one recent study, coins made up 80 percent of swallowed foreign objects that had to be removed by surgery.
Bath color tablets are products that dissolve in bath water to create various colors. They are available in a variety of shapes including tablets, wafers, or drops, which may look edible to children. They are generally safe if ingested by accident, but could be dangerous in large amounts. They may also cause allergic reactions in some children.
Water beads contain superabsorbent polymers that can expand to hundreds of times their original size after exposure to water. These beads can cause life-threatening intestinal blockages if swallowed. Some water beads also contain a chemical called acrylamide, but its toxicity is mostly related to repeated consumption of large amounts—not to a single ingestion.
Soapmaking is a popular home activity, but potentially hazardous chemicals are often involved. Use of pre-made soap bases, or “melt and pour” products, is a safer way to make homemade soap.
A recent study of battery injuries found that 29.8% of button battery ingestions involved batteries that were discarded or sitting out. Taping button batteries before disposal can decrease or stop button batteries from causing injury and will not affect the ability of the battery to be recycled.
Household bleach is used for cleaning and disinfecting and can also be used in “bleach baths” as a medical treatment for atopic dermatitis. Swallowing, inhaling, or injecting bleach can cause serious medical problems.
Bubble solution is a mix of dish soap and water. A wand is dipped into the solution and bubbles are formed by blowing gently on the wand or by swinging the wand back and forth. Since the dish soap is diluted in water, it is unlikely to cause toxicity if swallowed or splashed in the eye. Bubble solution may cause mild upset stomach if swallowed.
Insecticides are chemicals that kill insects by various mechanisms. Depending on the insecticide, you may experience toxicity from ingestion, contact with skin or eyes, or inhalation. Toxicity might occur following a single acute event, as well as a short- or long-term exposure. If you are concerned about insecticide exposure, call Poison Control to find out your toxicity risk and if you need medical treatment.
Lamp oil can provide warm, glowing light. If swallowed, however, lamp oil can cause serious injury that might not be apparent right away.
Spackle is a general term for products used to repair small holes in drywall. It contains finely ground minerals and a liquid binder. When the liquid evaporates, it leaves behind a solid plug filling the hole. While the typical components are safe in small amounts, spackle is not meant to be swallowed.
Vinyl chloride is a synthetic chemical used in PVC manufacturing and is also a component of cigarette smoke. Short-term inhalation of vinyl chloride vapors can irritate the eyes, nose, and throat and cause headaches and dizziness. Chronic exposure to vinyl chloride is associated with an increased risk of developing certain types of cancer.
Chlorine is a chemical element that takes the form of a gas at room temperature. It can cause burning and irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat, and can lead to coughing or lung injury. Chlorine gas mixed with water forms hypochlorite, which is found in bleach. Mixing bleach with an acid forms chlorine gas. If you inhale chlorine gas, leave the area immediately and breathe fresh air.
A variety of cleaning products are available to maintain wood floors. Wood floor cleaners are usually based on hydrocarbons, detergents, or glycol ether solvents. Each type carries its own precautions and potential adverse effects. Floor cleaners can also contain alcohol, weak acids, or alkaline chemicals to strengthen their cleaning properties.
Fiberglass is often used by mattress manufacturers to meet fire safety standards. Fiberglass may be present in mattress foam or covers, and human exposures to fiberglass can occur when mattress covers are unzipped or removed. Health effects from fiberglass exposure can include eye injuries, skin irritation, and lung disease.
Reed diffusers are liquid air fresheners in a narrow-necked bottle with long "sticks" inserted in to the liquid. Ingredients vary, but two common ingredients can be dangerous to a child who swallows them.
Play-Doh is a reusable modeling product made mostly of water, salt, and flour. It is not toxic. However, if a large amount is swallowed, it may cause a mild upset stomach. It may also be a choking hazard in young children. Rarely, contact dermatitis may occur. Since it contains flour, Play-Doh can trigger a gluten allergy.
Pen ink contains a solvent, resin, and a pigment or dye—among varied ingredients. The amount of ink in a pen is small and should not cause toxicity if eaten. Pen ink is considered non-toxic on the skin and can be washed off with soap and water or rubbing alcohol. The main risks of do-it-yourself stick-and-poke tattooing with ink are pain and infection.
Proper use of fire extinguishers is generally safe; however, there is some risk for mild respiratory, skin, or eye irritation. Use in areas with poor air flow, use with intent to harm someone, or intentional inhalation of fire extinguishers can produce serious toxicity and would require medical evaluation.
Pyrethroids are insecticides that act on the nervous system to paralyze and kill insects. They are less toxic to humans than to insects. Mucous membrane, skin, or eye irritation are the most common adverse effects. Often symptoms are due to an allergic reaction, especially after inhalation. Asthmatics are more likely to experience wheezing and other respiratory symptoms.
Fireplace flame color enhancers may contain heavy metals and/or caustic agents. Fire gel starter may contain methanol or hydrocarbons; both are toxic in small quantities. Fires can release poisonous carbon monoxide into the air.
Most paints for indoor use are very safe to use. Solvent-based or oil-based paints may cause more irritation to the eyes, skin, and respiratory tract than water-based paints. There's no evidence that paint fumes harm pregnant women or the fetus, but pregnant women are advised to limit their exposure to fresh paint fumes.
There are many sources of bad smells in and around the home including spoiled food, mold, volatile organic chemicals, leaky or backed-up pipes and drains, and pet odors. Mixing some household cleaners such as bleach and ammonia or acid can produce toxic fumes. Some toxic fumes such as carbon monoxide are odorless. Symptoms of toxicity will depend on the gas.
Super glue is cyanoacrylate, an acrylic resin that forms a strong adhesive bond. The main adverse effect is bonding of 2 surfaces such as lips, eye lids, or fingers. It can cause irritation and pain. Do not pull bonded areas apart. Soaking in water, acetone, or isopropyl alcohol or lubricating with oil or petroleum jelly may shorten bonding time.
Household product labels often contain the wrong information - or no information - about treating poisonings.
Feces are waste matter eliminated from the bowels. It is the remains of food in solid or semi-solid form that have not been completely digested. It may also contain products of body metabolism, as well as bacteria and cells from the lining of the digestive tract.
Natural gas is a gaseous hydrocarbon mixture with methane serving as the main gas. Methane is a simple asphyxiant that displaces oxygen in the air. If the methane concentration is high enough, the result is hypoxia and asphyxia (suffocation). If you suspect a natural gas leak, leave the building and contact the gas company. If people are sick, call Poison Control.
Inhalant abuse means trying to get high by breathing in vapors, fumes, or aerosol sprays. Thousands of products can be abused by inhaling. These are ordinary household products – and they are poisons. Nearly 20 percent of eighth-graders admit to abusing inhalants, but most parents don't even know about it. Inhalants can kill – even the first time.
Most inhalant abusers, though not all, are in their teens. Thousands of household products have been abused by inhalation. Only 25 percent of inhalant abusers treated in emergency room had no effects; many others suffered serious effects or died.
The toxic effects of air fresheners differ depending on the formulation. Inhaling small amounts of most air fresheners is usually not dangerous. Swallowing the gel-type evaporative beads or reed diffuser solutions can cause serious effects. There are also concerns about the adverse effects of repeated air freshener use on the environment and the body’s health.
Vinyl chloride is a synthetic chemical used in PVC manufacturing and is also a component of cigarette smoke. Short-term inhalation of vinyl chloride vapors can irritate the eyes, nose, and throat and cause headaches and dizziness. Chronic exposure to vinyl chloride is associated with an increased risk of developing certain types of cancer.
Teflon flu is a condition caused by inhaling fumes from burning polymer products, usually nonstick cookware. While the symptoms are generally mild and self-limiting, they can be more serious in people with underlying lung problems and can be fatal to pet birds. Teflon flu can be easily prevented by using a few simple, safe cooking techniques.
Wildfire smoke contains fine particles that can be inhaled into the lungs or irritate your eyes. Wildfire smoke can cause respiratory problems ranging from a runny nose and slight cough to wheezing, difficulty breathing, and bronchitis. Some people experience cardiac effects, especially those with underlying heart problems. Smoke can travel long distances and persist for a long time.
There are many sources of bad smells in and around the home including spoiled food, mold, volatile organic chemicals, leaky or backed-up pipes and drains, and pet odors. Mixing some household cleaners such as bleach and ammonia or acid can produce toxic fumes. Some toxic fumes such as carbon monoxide are odorless. Symptoms of toxicity will depend on the gas.
When used as directed, hairspray is minimally toxic. Unintentional eye contact, inhalation, or ingestion of small amounts of hairspray might produce minor irritating effects. Irritation should improve by rinsing the eyes or mouth or getting fresh air. Deliberately swallowing or inhaling hairspray can be very dangerous.
Stings from bees, wasps, hornets, and yellow jackets are common and painful. Pain, swelling, and itching at the site of the bite are common. An allergic reaction includes trouble breathing, chest tightness, and swelling on the body someplace other than the bite site. Allergic reactions to a bite or sting are medical emergencies. Call 911 right away.
Ant stings are common but rarely serious unless they are from imported fire ants. Problems can occur with multiple stings or with allergic reactions.
Kissing bugs can transmit a parasite that leads to a potentially serious illness called Chagas disease. Most cases of Chagas disease occur in Latin America. Although infection directly from exposure to the kissing bug is rare in the US, it is still important to take steps to prevent kissing bug bites.
Ant bait products are usually a combination of a food attractive to ants and an insecticide. Generally, unintentional exposures to ant baits pose little risk of toxicity due to their low concentration. Toddlers who taste ant bait products might develop nausea and vomiting. Contact with the skin or eyes can cause irritation.
Tarantulas are venomous, but the effects of the venom of tarantulas indigenous to North America are typically mild in humans and only cause pain at the bite site. Contact with tarantula hairs can cause redness, itching, and swelling. Avoid getting tarantula hairs in the eye. If you are bitten, wash the bite with soap and water, and then contact Poison Control, online or by phone.
Itch mite bites can cause intense itching and skin redness that can last for weeks. Because the mites are very small, most people do not remember being bitten. Over-the-counter products, including topical steroids and oral antihistamines, can be used to treat the itching caused by these bites.
Asian lady beetles (Harmonia axyridis) were introduced by the US Department of Agriculture to help control crop pests like aphids. Although they were invited guests, they have become branded as an invasive species and household pests. Asian lady beetles can bite, but they are not venomous.
Bedbugs are becoming more common. They are alarming and can cause uncomfortable bites. They do not cause human illness. Eliminating an infestation may require the assistance of a professional pest control operator.
Brown recluse spiders are rarely seen or identified in the United States and a bite often is not felt when it happens. Treatment includes treating the wound and preventing infection.
Ticks are most active during warmer months (April-September), but tick bites can happen during any time of the year. Ticks live in grassy, wooded, brush-filled areas or even on animals. Tick exposure can happen in your own backyard. See a healthcare provider if you experience fever, rash, or aches within a few weeks of a tick bite.
Black widow spider bites can be dangerous but fatal bites are rare. Black widow spider bites often are painful right away. After a bad bite, severe pain and muscle cramps can start in a couple of hours. Pain and muscle cramps can be treated. Antivenin is available but is needed only rarely.
Ticks are experts at feeding on your blood and, in return for your generosity, transmitting disease to you. There are several different kinds of bacterial, viral, and parasitic diseases transmitted by ticks, and tick-borne diseases are on the rise. Prevention is key: do what you can to prevent them from having access to you.
Kids eat bugs all the time. Few if any symptoms are likely to occur. In fact, insects form a regular part of the diet for many human cultures. Though most ingestions of edible insects tend to be harmless, people who have shellfish allergies should avoid eating insects due to the potential for cross-reactivity.
Head lice can affect just about any one. They are not dangerous but they cause miserable itching. Treating head lice involves combing the lice and their eggs (nits) from each strand of hair. Often a chemical also must be used to prevent additional lice from hatching. Follow instructions carefully. Keep products out of eyes, because they can be irritating.
Centipedes can inflict painful stings, but most are small and rarely sting humans. They live in damp places and hunt for prey at night. Centipedes are considered beneficial because they help control household pests such as cockroaches, silverfish, and ants.
Lyme disease is an infection caused by tick bites. Infected ticks are carried by deer and other outdoor animals. Lyme disease usually causes a rash around the bite. Other early symptoms can include chills, fever, headache, fatigue, and joint pain. Joints, the nervous system, and the heart are sometimes damaged. Lyme disease is treated with antibiotics.
Lufenuron is used to control fleas on dogs and cats. It is not used in humans, but humans might accidentally take an animal’s medication or come into contact with it in the form of an agricultural spray. Minor side effects such as GI upset and drowsiness might occur if that happens. No human overdoses have been published.
In the woods or in the garden, nature can surprise the unprepared.
Protection against disease transmission from insect bites is an important worldwide public health issue. DEET has been the most widely used and most effective insect repellent for 60 years. Newer repellents such as picaridin, IR3535, and plant-derived oils may be somewhat safer but are not more effective than DEET.
Cough and cold medicines are no longer recommended for children under the age of four. Ipecac syrup is no longer recommended for anyone. Mercury thermometers are now known to be a possible health risk if they break.
For years, parents were told to keep ipecac syrup at home. This medicine was used to make a child vomit after swallowing poison. Now, your doctor doesn't tell you to keep it. Poison control doesn't tell you to use it. You can’t even buy ipecac in the drugstore. It is NOT necessary to keep ipecac syrup in your home.
Jellyfish swim in waters off beaches and so pose a risk to human swimmers. When their tentacles touch skin, they pierce the skin and release a pain-causing substance. Treatment involves removing the tentacles and stopping the pain; both can be hard to do! Allergic reactions are possible, too.
Seabather’s eruption is an itching, burning rash that occurs when jellyfish larvae are trapped between the skin and a swimsuit. While it can be very uncomfortable, the rash is easily treated at home with over-the-counter antihistamines and topical steroids.
Urine is 95% water, which is mixed with urea, creatinine, electrolytes, and other compounds. Urine is not sterile since it contains bacteria. Therefore, one should not drink it, put it on an open wound, or use it to treat an ear infection. Using it for jellyfish stings can increase pain. There is no scientific evidence for the use of urine as an alternative medicine therapy.
So many poison prevention stories are about children, but when it comes to home remodeling, adults are at risk, too. Children, adults, and pets can become sick if home renovations are not carried out carefully.
Pregnant women with high blood lead levels can have high blood pressure, spontaneous abortion, small babies, and brain damage in the infant. All pregnant women with even one risk factor for lead poisoning should have a blood lead level done. Pregnant women with lead levels at or above 5 micrograms/deciliter must have further assessment and treatment.
There is a lot of information about avoiding drugs, alcohol, and tobacco while pregnant. There are some other poisons to be aware of if you're pregnant, including herbal medications, supplements, lead, and carbon monoxide.
Most paints for indoor use are very safe to use. Solvent-based or oil-based paints may cause more irritation to the eyes, skin, and respiratory tract than water-based paints. There's no evidence that paint fumes harm pregnant women or the fetus, but pregnant women are advised to limit their exposure to fresh paint fumes.
There are many sources of lead poisoning, including environmental and occupational causes. Poisoning is usually due to lead ingestion or inhalation. Lead poisoning causes multi-organ toxicity, especially of the nervous system and kidneys. If lead concentrations in the blood are high, chelating drugs can be given to reduce the burden of lead in the body.
At one time, the usual sources of lead poisoning were lead paint and leaded gasoline. Now, more unusual sources of lead poisoning include jewelry, cosmetics, imported herbal and traditional medicines, and even hobby supplies. Lead poisoning damages the nervous system but the symptoms can be misleading. Lead poisoning can only be diagnosed with a blood test.
Pokeberries are found in grape-like clusters on tall perennials with purple-red stems. Eating several berries can cause stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Adults have eaten the roots, mistaking them for medicinal plants. Serious symptoms have subsequently occurred, including bloody vomiting, bloody diarrhea, and low blood pressure.
Transferring a chemical into a soft drink bottle is a recipe for disaster…or death.
There are many types of look-alike products. It is easy for an adult or a child to mistake a cleaning product for a soft drink or a container of glue for eye drops.
Many medicines look like something good to eat or drink. Pay attention to what you put into your mouth!
Rubbing alcohol is a widely available household product often used to disinfect wounds. It is most commonly 70% isopropyl alcohol. It can be toxic if swallowed, inhaled, or absorbed through the skin. It is flammable and should always be kept away from open flames.
Torch fuel can look like apple juice. Making that mistake has cost people their lives.
Nicotine gummies are marketed to help adults quit smoking; however, a single gummy contains enough nicotine to poison a young child.
Pyracantha is an evergreen shrub often used in landscaping. The shrub typically has plentiful orange-red berries and needle-like thorns. The berries have not been shown to be toxic to animals or humans, although swallowing large amounts might cause some mild stomach upset.
A powdered aspirin preparation looks like lemonade powder. Mixing up the two could cause problems for people who should not take aspirin, including people who are allergic to aspirin.
Halloween is a holiday synonymous with costume contests and consumption of sugary candy. Eating certain types of sweets, including black licorice and sugar free candy, may result in unwanted toxic effects for trick-or-treaters. Consumption of cannabis edibles or rainbow fentanyl, which may resemble familiar candy or snack products, can also cause dangerous toxicity.
Mistakenly putting glue into your eyes or ears can cause pain and injury.
Children who mistake laxatives for chocolate are at risk for severe abdominal pain, diarrhea, and possibly dangerous fluid loss.
If it doesn't belong in your eye, it will probably hurt if it gets into your eye - a lot. Irritation, injury, even blindness can result. People get things into their eyes by not reading labels, by using products the wrong way, or by not using protective equipment when it's needed. Rinsing your eyes right away is very important if you get something into them.
Ticks are most active during warmer months (April-September), but tick bites can happen during any time of the year. Ticks live in grassy, wooded, brush-filled areas or even on animals. Tick exposure can happen in your own backyard. See a healthcare provider if you experience fever, rash, or aches within a few weeks of a tick bite.
Ticks are experts at feeding on your blood and, in return for your generosity, transmitting disease to you. There are several different kinds of bacterial, viral, and parasitic diseases transmitted by ticks, and tick-borne diseases are on the rise. Prevention is key: do what you can to prevent them from having access to you.
Lyme disease is an infection caused by tick bites. Infected ticks are carried by deer and other outdoor animals. Lyme disease usually causes a rash around the bite. Other early symptoms can include chills, fever, headache, fatigue, and joint pain. Joints, the nervous system, and the heart are sometimes damaged. Lyme disease is treated with antibiotics.
Sets of tiny, strong magnets were sold as adult toys but often were swallowed by children, resulting in serious injury and even death. The magnets, or a magnet and another metal object, stuck to each other, even through folds of intestine or tissue. This pinched off blood supply to the area, causing tissue death, bleeding, and infection.
Delta-8 THC is similar to delta-9 THC, the main psychoactive ingredient of cannabis, although it is less potent. The legal status of delta-8 THC is vague; it is legal in some states but has been restricted or banned in others. In states where the sale of delta-8 THC is legal, packaging may not be child-resistant, and may feature bright colors, cartoon-like images, or other features that are attractive to young children and adolescents.
Delta-9 THC-O acetate is a synthetic derivative of cannabis and causes psychoactive effects like those of delta-9 THC. There are limited available studies of delta-9 THC-O acetate’s clinical effects in humans, so caution is advised when using this product.
Cannabis is a popular drug, but it is associated with harmful health effects. Devices used to smoke cannabis, including bongs and rolling papers, may also cause health problems and should be used with caution.
Cannabis edibles are often sweet or savory products that are naturally attractive to young children. Serious and sometimes life-threatening side effects can occur in children who consume cannabis edibles.
Newer drugs of abuse are sending thousands of people to emergency rooms. They're called "fake pot", "fake weed", and "fake cocaine", but their effects are real and dangerous. Users cannot know exactly what they are getting when they buy and use these drugs. Some users of these drugs are ill for days and some have died.
"Spice", K2, and fake weed are some of the names given to illegal plant-based substances intended to imitate marijuana. Symptoms can range from anxiety and psychiatric disorders to death. "Bath salts" is a name for a synthetic chemical meant to act like cocaine or amphetamine. Users have had seizures, high blood pressure, and hallucinations; some have died.
Marijuana is the most common illicit drug in the US. A few states have decriminalized small amounts of the drug. Some permit medical uses. Marijuana is usually smoked. Effects include altered mood, impaired coordination, and impaired judgment. More severe effects sometimes occur. There is no antidote; treatment is supportive. The drug is sometimes addictive.
Cannabis-infused drinks contain the mind-altering ingredient tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). These drinks, which can be purchased at dispensaries or online, contain various amounts of THC in addition to alcohol, caffeine, or other cannabis derivatives. The safety of these drinks has not been studied extensively in humans.
Cannabidiol (CBD) is one of the most studied compounds of the cannabis plant. CBD drew attention when it was shown to stop seizures in a group of patients with a form of epilepsy that does not respond to conventional therapies. Potential benefits of CBD might include anti-inflammatory, immune system, and anti-anxiety effects. A great deal more scientific investigation is needed.
Halloween is a holiday synonymous with costume contests and consumption of sugary candy. Eating certain types of sweets, including black licorice and sugar free candy, may result in unwanted toxic effects for trick-or-treaters. Consumption of cannabis edibles or rainbow fentanyl, which may resemble familiar candy or snack products, can also cause dangerous toxicity.
Medical marijuana is sometimes prescribed for patients with HIV/AIDS, seizure disorders, cancer, severe pain, and severe nausea. The active chemical is usually stronger than in the marijuana plant. There are no regulations for child-safe storage of medical marijuana products; young children have been seriously poisoned by swallowing medical marijuana.
Molnupiravir is an oral medication currently being investigated as a treatment for COVID-19 infection and has been shown to be safe and effective in clinical trials. The pharmaceutical company Merck recently applied for an EUA for molnupiravir from the US FDA.
Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors target and reduce inflammation. One JAK inhibitor, baricitinib, is used to treat COVID-19 infection. The JAK inhibitor oclacitinib (Apoquel) has not been studied in humans and is not used to treat COVID-19 infection.
Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) is a naturally occurring compound found in several food sources. In the US, it is also sold as a dietary supplement claiming to improve symptoms of osteoarthritis stiffness, swelling, and pain. If you are considering using MSM, always speak with your physician first and purchase products through trusted and reliable sources.
Trimetazidine (TMZ) is a drug that helps the heart use energy more efficiently. It is used in some countries as a treatment for heart disease. Because it may also improve exercise tolerance, trimetazidine is recognized as a doping agent.
Many medicines look like something good to eat or drink. Pay attention to what you put into your mouth!
Pills used for medication abortions are generally safe and effective; however, they should not be given in some circumstances and must be used with appropriate supervision in case of complications.
The characteristic odor of urine is likely due to the presence of volatile organic compounds, or VOC’s, which are eliminated from the body through the kidneys. Strong urine odors may be related to metabolic conditions, infections, or dehydration.
Clonidine is a medication used to treat high blood pressure and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. In overdoses, clonidine can cause low heart rate and blood pressure, drowsiness, and shallow breathing. Only take clonidine as directed by your doctor to avoid unwanted adverse effects.
Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening allergic reaction, often to ordinary things like bee stings, peanut butter, or antibiotics. Life-saving auto-injectors are used to treat anaphylaxis. Use them safely to prevent finger sticks. Unintentional injection of epinephrine into fingers or hands can cause limited blood flow and injury. It sometimes requires a trip to the emergency room.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reported a number of cases of severe allergic reactions to acne medicines containing benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. Symptoms included chest tightness, trouble breathing, faintness, and severe swelling of the face, throat, lips, and tongue. Anyone with these symptoms should call 911 right away.
Afrin contains oxymetazoline, an ingredient that causes temporary nasal blood vessel narrowing. When used as directed, it reduces nasal congestion. Frequent use of oxymetazoline can cause worsening of nasal congestion after usage is stopped. Some people may continuously use Afrin to avoid these worsening symptoms, and this is often described as “Afrin addiction”.
More than ever, adults are poisoning themselves by mistake with prescription opioid pain relievers. Many of these people die and others require days of hospital treatment to recover.
“Morning after” pills such as Plan B One-Step® can be used to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or after other contraception methods have failed. These pills are generally safe and effective, but it is important to know how to use them correctly and when to seek medical care. The use of emergency contraceptive medications like Plan B One-Step® is not abortion.
Albuterol is a medication used to treat asthma and other lung conditions. In an overdose, albuterol can cause muscle spasms, tremor, high blood pressure, low potassium, and high or low blood sugar. To avoid an overdose, take your albuterol as directed.
Amlodipine, available as amlodipine besylate, is a prescription medication used to lower blood pressure or to reduce chest pain. Common amlodipine brands include Amvaz, Katerzia, and Norvasc. Amlodipine does not cause weight gain, hair loss, or headaches. You may take it with or without food, including grapefruit juice.
Amoxicillin is an antibiotic commonly prescribed for pregnant women who have bacterial infections. Use of amoxicillin during pregnancy and while breastfeeding is generally safe, but in some cases, rare side effects can occur.
Lexapro is the brand name for escitalopram, an SSRI antidepressant used to treat major depressive disorder and generalized anxiety disorder. Escitalopram is associated with side effects including sleep disturbances, fatigue, and nausea. Like many other antidepressants, escitalopram may require several weeks to months of use to provide full benefits.
Benadryl (diphenhydramine) is an antihistamine used mostly to treat seasonal allergies. In overdose, diphenhydramine can cause excessive sleepiness, confusion, hallucinations, fast heartbeat, seizures, and coma. Take Benadryl as directed by a pharmacist or physician to avoid unwanted side effects.
Bupropion is a medication that is most commonly prescribed to treat depression, quit smoking, and lose weight. It is generally safe at recommended doses, but there can be serious side effects, the most notable being seizures. It is important to take the medication exactly as directed to minimize adverse effects. Common brands containing bupropion include Wellbutrin®, Zyban®, and Contrave®.
Levothyroxine is a prescription medication that is used to treat hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid gland). Levothyroxine works by mimicking the activity of the natural hormone that is normally generated by the thyroid gland. Levothyroxine is a medication that is generally taken for life to maintain normal thyroid function.
Neurontin (gabapentin) is a medication that is used for several different conditions such as nerve pain, epilepsy, and many others. While overdoses with gabapentin are rare, it is important to know the symptoms of an overdose and the risk factors that increase the likelihood of an overdose. To avoid an overdose, take gabapentin as directed.
Trazodone is a prescription oral selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor used for treatment of major depressive disorder and other conditions including anxiety and sleep disorders. Common trazodone brands names include Desyrel and Desyrel Dividose. Trazodone interacts with certain medications and alcohol and should be taken only as prescribed.
Montelukast is a prescription medication most commonly used to treat asthma and allergies. It is a leukotriene receptor blocker that reduces inflammation, relaxes smooth muscles, and prevents fluid buildup in the airways. Although montelukast is generally well-tolerated, it is associated with side effects such as headache, abdominal pain, and sore throat.
Perindopril is a medication used to treat heart conditions such as high blood pressure. It is part of a commonly prescribed class of drugs called ACE inhibitors. These drugs are generally well tolerated but have been associated with drug-induced cough and a potentially serious adverse reaction called angioedema.
MAO inhibitors are commonly used for the treatment of Parkinson's disease and depression. Serious medical conditions can occur if MAO inhibitors are used in higher doses or taken in overdose. In addition, people who take MAO inhibitors should avoid eating certain foods, to reduce their risk of unwanted side effects.
Brexpiprazole is an antipsychotic medicine that is added to an antidepressant to treat major depression and is used alone to treat schizophrenia. There is a low risk of adverse effects, such as restlessness, drowsiness, and slight weight gain. If someone takes more than a usual dose of brexpiprazole, medical attention might be needed.
Two old drugs used for malaria, chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine, are being studied for their potential to treat coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID-19). Side effects from these drugs can be very serious and include irregular heart rhythms that can result in death. Check state COVID-19 website resources and telephone hotlines for more information about COVID-19 in your area.
At least 85 drugs are known or thought to interact with grapefruit. Grapefruit products can cause those drugs to stay in your system much longer than usual. The effects are like a drug overdose. They can include dangerous heart rhythms, kidney damage, muscle damage, respiratory depression, and bleeding from the stomach or intestines.
Medication errors can be dangerous for humans and for pets. An overdose of the pet's own medicine can be harmful, even fatal. Some human medicines are very dangerous for pets. Drug interactions can occur in pets, just as they can in humans. Be as careful about medicating pets as you are about medicating your children or yourself.
There is a lot of information about avoiding drugs, alcohol, and tobacco while pregnant. There are some other poisons to be aware of if you're pregnant, including herbal medications, supplements, lead, and carbon monoxide.
Ibuprofen, naproxen, and aspirin are non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). They are used to treat pain, fever, and inflammation. They are also found in combination products such as cough and cold medicines. An overdose of these medications may cause stomach upset, abdominal pain, and vomiting, kidney damage, ulcers, bleeding, seizures, and coma.
There are nearly 1500 documented interactions between drugs, herbal medicines, and dietary supplements. These interactions can cause a wide variety of harmful effects. Taking an herb or supplement could change the way a prescription medicine works in the body, causing symptoms like an overdose. Or, it might cause the medicine not to work at all.
Indapamide is a medication for high blood pressure that appears to be better than many other drugs at controlling high blood pressure while lowering the risk of heart failure. However, indapamide can sometimes cause patients to become dehydrated and lose potassium. Adverse effects can last for several days after the drug is taken.
When it comes to the opioid epidemic, we can all have a positive impact regardless of our social, economic, or professional status. It is important to practice safe medication use, storage, and disposal to prevent poisoning. By learning how to use the opioid reversal agent naloxone, you could save a life. Learn more by listening to our podcast, Poison!.
Clenbuterol is a medication used to treat asthma and COPD in some countries, but it is not FDA-approved for human use in the United States. It is widely misused for possible anabolic and fat-burning effects, which have only been shown in animals. Clenbuterol causes toxicity at low doses. Symptoms include tremors, high heart rate, low blood potassium, seizures, and cardiac arrest.
Eluxadoline is a medication used for the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea (IBS-D) in adults. The most common side effects of eluxadoline are mild constipation, nausea, and abdominal pain. There are important safety considerations for eluxadoline including rare but serious side effects and a potential for drug-drug interactions.
Naproxen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug that decreases pain and inflammation and reduces fever. Side effects include nausea and stomachache, as well as mild drowsiness, headache, and dizziness. Acute overdose and chronic use may cause reversible kidney toxicity. A naproxen overdose is usually not considered serious unless a large amount is taken.
Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACE-inhibitors) are safe and effective medications used to treat and prevent many cardiovascular conditions. Angioedema, a rare but serious complication, may occur in some people who take ACE inhibitors.
Antibiotic overdoses are rarely dangerous, but stomach upset and diarrhea may occur. Taking the wrong antibiotic is a problem if someone is allergic to the drug. Misuse of antibiotics is a problem for many reasons: an infection might not be cured, antibiotic-resistant organisms can develop, or, if a specific antibiotic is needed, it might not be effective.
Antihistamines are medicines to treat allergic reactions to pollen, dust, pet dander, foods, and drugs. Antihistamines are found in many different forms for children and adults: liquids, tablets, creams, nasal sprays, and eye drops. Finding the best antihistamine for your symptoms can take a while. In the meantime, never take too much!
Eliquis (apixaban) is an oral medication that reduces the risk of forming blood clots. The most common side effect is bleeding/bruising. Do not take more than prescribed as it puts you at higher risk for bleeding. Follow up with your healthcare provider regularly if you are prescribed this medication.
Synthetic opioids are powerful drugs that can cause life-threatening respiratory depression and death. These drugs are currently responsible for most of the opioid-related fatalities in the United States.
Many weight loss supplements contain ingredients that are contaminated, ineffective, dangerous, or actually illegal. Some people become ill after taking these products. Some have interactions with medicines. It can be hard to get your money back. Worst of all, these products often don't help.
Benzonatate is an anesthetic drug and cough suppressant. When benzonatate capsules are swallowed, the medication acts directly on the lungs to reduce coughing. Benzonatate is only approved for use in individuals 10 years of age and older. Younger children who take benzonatate may experience serious toxicity or even death.
Aspirin is an over-the-counter medication used as an anti-inflammatory agent and for pain or fever relief. Low dose aspirin is used to prevent heart attacks and strokes in people with existing heart disease, and sometimes in pregnancy to prevent preeclampsia. Normal side effects include stomach upset and indigestion. Aspirin overdose can be life-threatening.
Internet pharmacies offer a convenient way to obtain prescription drugs and are frequently used by health insurers. Unfortunately, only about 4% of online pharmacies are actually legal, licensed pharmacies. Fraudulent pharmacies may allow you to purchase prescription medicines without a prescription. The medicines they send may be fake, wrong, or contaminated.
Nitrosamines are common chemicals in our daily lives. While exposure to small amounts of nitrosamines is likely not dangerous, long-term exposure to high levels of certain nitrosamines is associated with an increased risk of cancer.
A powdered aspirin preparation looks like lemonade powder. Mixing up the two could cause problems for people who should not take aspirin, including people who are allergic to aspirin.
Pepto Bismol contains bismuth subsalicylate and is used for stomach upset and diarrhea. Bismuth can temporarily cause black tongue and feces. Salicylate toxicity can occur after overdose. Avoid Pepto Bismol if you take aspirin regularly. It is not advisable during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Children under 12 years of age should not take salicylate products due to an increased risk for Reye’s Syndrome.
Generic medicines have the same active ingredients and effects as brand name medicines, but they may be a different color, shape, or size. For many years, U.S. law has required that generic drugs look different from brand names. Many different drug companies may make versions of the same medicine. Generic drugs are less expensive than brand name drugs.
Briviact® (brivaracetam) is an antiepileptic drug (AED) that is used in combination with another AED to improve control of both focal and generalized seizures. Brivaracetam commonly causes drowsiness and dizziness, so it should be used with caution when taking other sedating medications or alcohol. It can interact with drugs that are metabolized by the liver enzyme CYP2C19.
Cough and cold medicines are no longer recommended for children under the age of four. Ipecac syrup is no longer recommended for anyone. Mercury thermometers are now known to be a possible health risk if they break.
Many calls to Poison Control are from older adults who get their medications confused. This is always cause for alarm. Sometimes it's dangerous.
Carbamide peroxide is most commonly used as an ear wax removal agent, oral rinse, and in home teeth-whitening products. High concentrations of carbamide peroxide can cause serious burns. Rarely, life-threatening toxicity can occur when carbamide peroxide is swallowed and oxygen bubbles form in the body and block blood flow to tissues.
At some point, children will be old enough to take their own medicines. Teaching children to take medicine safely involves supervision; teaching children when to take medicine; and teaching children how to take medicine.
Ethyl chloride is a local anesthetic agent that relieves pain by cooling the skin surface. Ethyl chloride abuse, which occurs when individuals intentionally inhale its vapors, can result in sleepiness, abnormal heart rhythms, and death. Ethyl chloride is flammable and can cause frostbite if used incorrectly.
The most important part of taking or giving medicine happens before taking or giving that drug: reading and understanding the label. This is the easiest way to prevent errors and overdoses. All over-the-counter (OTC) medication labels contain Drug Facts: important information about the active ingredient(s), uses, warnings, doses, and directions.
Crotamiton is a medication sometimes used to treat scabies infestation. Crotamiton kills the scabies mites and helps with the intense itching associated with scabies. Although it is generally safe, some side effects have been reported. While other pesticide and drug combinations have taken the place of crotamiton as first-line therapy, it remains an option for the treatment of scabies.
Over-the-counter eyedrops and decongestant sprays are frequently used to treat upper respiratory congestion and irritated, red eyes. When consumed by mouth, they may result in serious toxicity and even death.
Everyday life is full of chances to make mistakes with our medicines. When it comes to heart medicine, too many people cause heartache by taking the wrong medicine, leaving heart medicine where a child can reach it, skipping a check-up to monitor levels of heart medicine and its effects, or treating symptoms with herbal medicines and teas, without checking with your doctor.
Two groups of people are most at risk of prescription drug overdose in this country: people who take high doses of opioids for medical uses over a long period of time and people who abuse opioids by taking them without a medical reason for doing so.
The opioid epidemic has evolved rapidly in recent years, starting with an increase in opioid prescriptions to treat chronic pain. To reduce risk and maximize the benefits of pain treatment options, the CDC issued guidelines for opioid prescribing which recommend non-opioid medications as the preferred first step when treating chronic pain. Listen to our podcast, Poison!, to learn more.
Current responses to the opioid epidemic are inadequate. Effective treatments are underutilized, and the result is a cycle of drug use, inadequate treatment, and return to drug use. Breaking this cycle will require a lot of individual and community effort. Listen to our podcast, Poison!, to learn more.
Grapefruit and grapefruit juice should not be consumed with certain medications. To find out if your medicines interact with grapefruit juice, read the package insert or label, or talk with your doctor and pharmacist.
Ivermectin is a beneficial and safe antiparasitic drug used for a wide variety of parasitic diseases in humans and animals. Ivermectin is helping to eliminate onchocerciasis (river blindness), a malady that has plagued millions in the world's poorest communities.
The most common medication error is taking - or giving - a double dose. For some medicines, a double dose can cause significant problems. Examples include medicines for high blood pressure, ADHD, and diabetes.
Doxycycline is a common broad-spectrum antibiotic prescribed for many kinds of infections. Therapeutic doses of doxycycline are generally safe, but doxycycline may cause severe reactions. It is important to understand what doxycycline is, be aware of precautions, and know what to do in instances of unintentional ingestion, overdose, or misuse.
Erectile dysfunction (ED) medications can help treat certain medical causes of ED, but they are not without risk. Serious toxic effects have been seen in adults with use and misuse of these medications. Some “genuine” brand name products and herbal or “natural” ED products are counterfeit or mislabeled and sometimes contain dangerous substances.
Mistakenly putting glue into your eyes or ears can cause pain and injury.
Opioids are powerful drugs that can relieve pain but also impair breathing, leading to brain injury and death in overdose. The rising number of deaths involving opioids is referred to as the opioid epidemic. People are dying in numbers that exceed the death toll seen during the peak of the AIDS epidemic. Listen to our podcast, Poison!, to learn more.
There are many ways to make mistakes with medicines. Among the most common are taking the wrong medicine, taking too much medicine, giving the wrong medicine, and confusing one medicine for another. Problems from these mix-ups could range from minor to extremely serious.
Medications may retain their potency after their expiration date, depending upon how they are stored. While expired medications are generally not toxic, if the drug loses its potency, the medical problem you are taking it for may not be adequately treated, causing harm.
If it doesn't belong in your eye, it will probably hurt if it gets into your eye - a lot. Irritation, injury, even blindness can result. People get things into their eyes by not reading labels, by using products the wrong way, or by not using protective equipment when it's needed. Rinsing your eyes right away is very important if you get something into them.
Famotidine is a medication commonly used for heartburn, reflux, and other gastric conditions. The dosing of famotidine varies based on the condition being treated, and famotidine is usually taken once or twice daily. Side effects of famotidine include headache and constipation or diarrhea. Use of famotidine has not been associated with cancer development in humans.
Fentanyl is a powerful opioid pain medication as well as a common contaminant found in illicit drugs. It can cause users to stop breathing, resulting in death. The antidote naloxone (Narcan) can reverse the effects of a fentanyl overdose if given in time.
Thyroid hormones can be found in prescription medications and in some over-the-counter weight-loss supplements. Thyroid hormones should not be used for routine weight loss.
Tirzepatide (Zepbound) was approved in 2023 by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for weight loss. While results from clinical trials are promising, experience with the drug is limited at this time. It is important to know how to take tirzepatide and what adverse effects and interactions to look for.
Every year, nearly 100,000 adults aged 65 and older are admitted to the hospital for drug side effects. In a recent study, the majority of problems were caused by "blood thinners" (warfarin and other oral anti-thrombosis drugs) and diabetes drugs (insulin and oral diabetes medicines).
Paxlovid is an oral medication that recently received emergency use authorization from the FDA to prevent severe COVID-19 infection in high-risk individuals who test positive for the virus. While it is generally well tolerated, Paxlovid interacts with many commonly used medications, which can lead to toxicity.
Serotonin syndrome is a disorder caused by excessive serotonin activity in the human body. It often occurs after medication use and can cause potentially life-threatening symptoms including high fever, confusion, and seizures.
Semaglutide (Wegovy, Ozempic, Rybelsus) and liraglutide (Saxenda) are members of the GLP-1 agonist class of drugs. These prescription medications help improve blood sugar control and are often prescribed to diabetic patients. In non-diabetic patients who are overweight or obese, certain GLP-1 agonists are also approved by the FDA to help with weight control.
Methylprednisolone is a steroid medication commonly prescribed for various conditions, including severe allergies, inflammation, breathing disorders, or ulcerative colitis. Methylprednisolone should be taken as prescribed to minimize the risk of side effects, ranging from mood changes to increased hunger.
Metformin is a medication used to treat type 2 diabetes. It has mild side effects and is generally safe when taken as prescribed. Rarely, it can cause a severe and life-threatening condition called lactic acidosis in patients with specific risk factors.
Ketamine is an anesthetic drug that is also used as a treatment for depression. Because it can cause a sense of dissociation and euphoria, ketamine is also misused as a “club drug”. Ketamine has side effects, including psychological disturbances, and should only be used under direct physician supervision.
Most parents and caregivers know the importance of keeping medicine up and away, out of sight and reach of young children. Even so, leaving medicine in work bags, purses, pill organizers, and on countertops is quite common. This means easy access for curious children, and can easily lead to unintentional poisonings. Keep kids safe with these safety tips.
Transdermal drugs release small amounts of drug into the blood stream over a long period of time. These "skin patch" drugs include pain relievers, nicotine, hormones, and drugs to treat angina and motion sickness. Overdoses can happen if the patch is broken, cut open, or chewed on, if too many are worn, or if a child has an adult patch on.
Fluvoxamine is a medication that has been used to treat obsessive compulsive disorder and depression. Recent clinical trials have shown that it may be effective for preventing hospitalizations and complications of COVID-19 infection, but it is not quite ready for prime time.
Molnupiravir is an oral medication currently being investigated as a treatment for COVID-19 infection and has been shown to be safe and effective in clinical trials. The pharmaceutical company Merck recently applied for an EUA for molnupiravir from the US FDA.
Ivermectin has been safely used to treat parasites (such as heart and intestinal worms) in animals and is approved for use in humans for parasite infections, head lice, and rosacea. It has not been shown to be effective for preventing or treating COVID-19 infection and taking products not intended for human use may lead to serious adverse effects.
Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors target and reduce inflammation. One JAK inhibitor, baricitinib, is used to treat COVID-19 infection. The JAK inhibitor oclacitinib (Apoquel) has not been studied in humans and is not used to treat COVID-19 infection.
SGLT-2 inhibitors are effective in treating heart failure for patients with and without diabetes. Because of their benefits in reducing death and hospitalizations from heart failure, these medications are being used more often.
Up to 10% of people who take penicillin can have an allergic reaction. However, life-threatening reactions (anaphylaxis) are very rare. Most people with a penicillin allergy can safely take related medications, including cephalosporins.
Trimetazidine (TMZ) is a drug that helps the heart use energy more efficiently. It is used in some countries as a treatment for heart disease. Because it may also improve exercise tolerance, trimetazidine is recognized as a doping agent.
Benzocaine is a local anesthetic (medicine that numbs skin and gums). Teething gels are among the over-the-counter preparations that contain benzocaine. However, even small amounts of benzocaine are dangerous for infants; it can prevent the bloodstream from carrying oxygen throughout the body.
Ramelteon is a drug that is prescribed to help people fall asleep faster. It typically causes only mild side effects.
Pills used for medication abortions are generally safe and effective; however, they should not be given in some circumstances and must be used with appropriate supervision in case of complications.
The characteristic odor of urine is likely due to the presence of volatile organic compounds, or VOC’s, which are eliminated from the body through the kidneys. Strong urine odors may be related to metabolic conditions, infections, or dehydration.
Clonidine is a medication used to treat high blood pressure and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. In overdoses, clonidine can cause low heart rate and blood pressure, drowsiness, and shallow breathing. Only take clonidine as directed by your doctor to avoid unwanted adverse effects.
Glucosamine is a natural substance found in cartilage. In the US, it is sold as a dietary supplement and promoted to reduce osteoarthritis pain. It is generally safe and well-tolerated. However, strong scientific evidence showing that it actually works is lacking and dietary supplements are not regulated in the same vigorous manner as medications.
Sertraline is an antidepressant that works in the brain to alter the activity of serotonin, a chemical that helps regulate mood. Side effects of sertraline are frequently mild and include weight loss and drowsiness. However, because it interacts with many other medications as well as alcohol, sertraline must be used with caution.
Acepromazine is a drug used to sedate animals and is not for human use. Most acepromazine poisonings occur in curious children or when people unintentionally mistake it for their own medication. Common symptoms of acepromazine poisoning include drowsiness and slowed breathing. In some cases, seizures, coma, and death have been reported.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reported a number of cases of severe allergic reactions to acne medicines containing benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. Symptoms included chest tightness, trouble breathing, faintness, and severe swelling of the face, throat, lips, and tongue. Anyone with these symptoms should call 911 right away.
Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) affects children and adults. Stimulant drugs are given to children and adults. Questions about possible effects on the heart and blood vessels were answered by two large recent studies: these drugs are not associated with an increased risk of serious effects on the heart and blood vessels.
"ADHD" stands for "attention deficit hyperactivity disorder". Symptoms include hyperactivity, impulsiveness, and inability to pay attention, manage frustration, stay organized, or focus on tasks. Treatment is based on behavior therapy and/or drug therapy. ADHD drugs can cause side effects; a deliberate overdose of any amount requires immediate medical care.
“Morning after” pills such as Plan B One-Step® can be used to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or after other contraception methods have failed. These pills are generally safe and effective, but it is important to know how to use them correctly and when to seek medical care. The use of emergency contraceptive medications like Plan B One-Step® is not abortion.
Albuterol is a medication used to treat asthma and other lung conditions. In an overdose, albuterol can cause muscle spasms, tremor, high blood pressure, low potassium, and high or low blood sugar. To avoid an overdose, take your albuterol as directed.
Amlodipine, available as amlodipine besylate, is a prescription medication used to lower blood pressure or to reduce chest pain. Common amlodipine brands include Amvaz, Katerzia, and Norvasc. Amlodipine does not cause weight gain, hair loss, or headaches. You may take it with or without food, including grapefruit juice.
Amoxicillin is an antibiotic commonly prescribed for pregnant women who have bacterial infections. Use of amoxicillin during pregnancy and while breastfeeding is generally safe, but in some cases, rare side effects can occur.
Amoxicillin is an antibiotic commonly used to treat a wide variety of bacterial infections such as middle ear infections, strep throat, and urinary tract infections. It generally has mild side effects, but may cause nausea, vomiting, and stomach upset. It is chemically similar to penicillin, so people with a penicillin allergy may react similarly to amoxicillin.
Lexapro is the brand name for escitalopram, an SSRI antidepressant used to treat major depressive disorder and generalized anxiety disorder. Escitalopram is associated with side effects including sleep disturbances, fatigue, and nausea. Like many other antidepressants, escitalopram may require several weeks to months of use to provide full benefits.
If you haven't cleaned out your medicine cabinet for a while, you might find some old, old medicines hiding there. But they wouldn't be older than the medicines found at the bottom of the sea, near Italy. It's interesting to link ancient medicines with problems that still bother us today - and with modern treatments for the same problems from years past.
Benadryl (diphenhydramine) is an antihistamine used mostly to treat seasonal allergies. In overdose, diphenhydramine can cause excessive sleepiness, confusion, hallucinations, fast heartbeat, seizures, and coma. Take Benadryl as directed by a pharmacist or physician to avoid unwanted side effects.
Bupropion is a medication that is most commonly prescribed to treat depression, quit smoking, and lose weight. It is generally safe at recommended doses, but there can be serious side effects, the most notable being seizures. It is important to take the medication exactly as directed to minimize adverse effects. Common brands containing bupropion include Wellbutrin®, Zyban®, and Contrave®.
Levothyroxine is a prescription medication that is used to treat hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid gland). Levothyroxine works by mimicking the activity of the natural hormone that is normally generated by the thyroid gland. Levothyroxine is a medication that is generally taken for life to maintain normal thyroid function.
Neurontin (gabapentin) is a medication that is used for several different conditions such as nerve pain, epilepsy, and many others. While overdoses with gabapentin are rare, it is important to know the symptoms of an overdose and the risk factors that increase the likelihood of an overdose. To avoid an overdose, take gabapentin as directed.
Trazodone is a prescription oral selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor used for treatment of major depressive disorder and other conditions including anxiety and sleep disorders. Common trazodone brands names include Desyrel and Desyrel Dividose. Trazodone interacts with certain medications and alcohol and should be taken only as prescribed.
Hydrocortisone belongs to a class of medicines called corticosteroids. It is available in various forms, including topical creams, pills, and suppositories. It is often used to treat eczema, hemorrhoids, bug bites, mild sunburns, and rashes. Because it might cause fetal harm, using hydrocortisone during pregnancy is not recommended.
Prednisone is a commonly prescribed steroid medication primarily used to relieve symptoms of allergic reactions, including itching and swelling. Prednisone is generally well-tolerated if taken as prescribed, though side effects such as changes in behavior, swelling, and interactions with other drugs might occur.
Montelukast is a prescription medication most commonly used to treat asthma and allergies. It is a leukotriene receptor blocker that reduces inflammation, relaxes smooth muscles, and prevents fluid buildup in the airways. Although montelukast is generally well-tolerated, it is associated with side effects such as headache, abdominal pain, and sore throat.
Perindopril is a medication used to treat heart conditions such as high blood pressure. It is part of a commonly prescribed class of drugs called ACE inhibitors. These drugs are generally well tolerated but have been associated with drug-induced cough and a potentially serious adverse reaction called angioedema.
Two old drugs used for malaria, chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine, are being studied for their potential to treat coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID-19). Side effects from these drugs can be very serious and include irregular heart rhythms that can result in death. Check state COVID-19 website resources and telephone hotlines for more information about COVID-19 in your area.
Up to 70% of infants vomit at least once a day until they are four months old. They may suffer from gastroesophageal reflux.Sometimes doctors prescribe ranitidine for these babies. Parents often panic after giving the wrong dose of ranitidine. Ranitidine overdoses usually don't cause problems; parents should call Poison Control anyway for specific advice.
To date, there are no definite answers about how well melatonin works, how safe it is when taken for long periods, or what constitutes a melatonin overdose.
At least 85 drugs are known or thought to interact with grapefruit. Grapefruit products can cause those drugs to stay in your system much longer than usual. The effects are like a drug overdose. They can include dangerous heart rhythms, kidney damage, muscle damage, respiratory depression, and bleeding from the stomach or intestines.
Packages of birth control pills contain hormone pills and may contain iron and placebo pills. Children who swallow birth control hormones are not at risk, even if they are boys. There are few, if any short term effects from the hormones. Children who swallow birth control hormones may have stomach upset, diarrhea, or irritability but no long-term effects.
Indapamide is a medication for high blood pressure that appears to be better than many other drugs at controlling high blood pressure while lowering the risk of heart failure. However, indapamide can sometimes cause patients to become dehydrated and lose potassium. Adverse effects can last for several days after the drug is taken.
You can gauge the extent and location of your dog's pain by watching his behavior, mood, and response to being touched. Anything more than very mild pain requires examination by a veterinarian who can prescribe the most appropriate medication. Over-the-counter pain medications intended for humans should never be used in dogs without consulting a veterinarian.
Losartan (Cozaar) is a common medication used to lower blood pressure. It is typically well-tolerated and doesn’t interact with many drugs, foods, or supplements. Losartan may cause side effects, including fatigue, dizziness, and fainting. It is not safe to use during pregnancy, and can have dangerous effects if excessive amounts are consumed.
Loratadine (Claritin®) is an over-the-counter medicine used to relieve allergy symptoms. It is typically well-tolerated with minimal side effects such as headache and minor drowsiness, but generally doesn’t cause significant tiredness. There are minimal drug interactions associated with loratadine. Loratadine is typically safe to use during pregnancy and lactation.
Eluxadoline is a medication used for the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea (IBS-D) in adults. The most common side effects of eluxadoline are mild constipation, nausea, and abdominal pain. There are important safety considerations for eluxadoline including rare but serious side effects and a potential for drug-drug interactions.
Sleep deprivation is a common condition among US adults. Non-drug approaches should be tried first. Medicines for sleep include prescription agents, OTC drugs, and dietary supplements. Many sleep aids can cause dependence or next-day drowsiness. Dietary supplements and herbals promoted to help sleep are not approved by the FDA as safe or effective.
Naproxen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug that decreases pain and inflammation and reduces fever. Side effects include nausea and stomachache, as well as mild drowsiness, headache, and dizziness. Acute overdose and chronic use may cause reversible kidney toxicity. A naproxen overdose is usually not considered serious unless a large amount is taken.
Phenylephrine is a decongestant available in many over-the-counter cold products. A U.S. Food and Drug (FDA) Advisory Panel reviewed recent studies and found that oral phenylephrine is no more effective than placebo for the treatment of nasal congestion. Based on these findings and additional review, the FDA has proposed that products containing oral phenylephrine be removed from the market.
Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACE-inhibitors) are safe and effective medications used to treat and prevent many cardiovascular conditions. Angioedema, a rare but serious complication, may occur in some people who take ACE inhibitors.
Antacids buffer stomach acid and provide relief from heartburn and indigestion. When taken as directed, antacids are considered safe. Excessive or long-term use can result in toxicity. There are several important drug interactions caused by antacids.
Fluoroquinolone antibiotics are associated with serious adverse effects. For this reason, they are not the preferred treatment for many infections, but still have an important role for resistant bacteria and in patients with allergies to other antibiotics.
Antibiotic overdoses are rarely dangerous, but stomach upset and diarrhea may occur. Taking the wrong antibiotic is a problem if someone is allergic to the drug. Misuse of antibiotics is a problem for many reasons: an infection might not be cured, antibiotic-resistant organisms can develop, or, if a specific antibiotic is needed, it might not be effective.
Antidepressants are drugs used to treat major depressive disorder, panic disorder, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and other conditions. The Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors affect the way our bodies use serotonin and other neurotransmitters. The drugs may take a few weeks to help and may cause withdrawal if stopped suddenly.
SNRIs are a class of antidepressants. A rare but potentially very serious side effect of SNRIs is serotonin syndrome, which can occur when SNRIs are taken with other drugs. Like all antidepressants, SNRIs should not be abruptly stopped. Careful tapering of the dosage can minimize the risk of withdrawal.
Antihistamines are medicines to treat allergic reactions to pollen, dust, pet dander, foods, and drugs. Antihistamines are found in many different forms for children and adults: liquids, tablets, creams, nasal sprays, and eye drops. Finding the best antihistamine for your symptoms can take a while. In the meantime, never take too much!
Eliquis (apixaban) is an oral medication that reduces the risk of forming blood clots. The most common side effect is bleeding/bruising. Do not take more than prescribed as it puts you at higher risk for bleeding. Follow up with your healthcare provider regularly if you are prescribed this medication.
Apoquel® is the brand name for oclacitinib, a medication approved for use in dogs to stop itching caused by many different reasons. This medication is similar to corticosteroids but, has fewer side effects. Oclacitinib is only indicated for use in dogs and is not for human consumption.
Methylene blue is the antidote for a serious disease called methemoglobinemia but has also been studied for other medical uses. Since it has significant side effects and may interact with many medications, the routine use of methylene blue should be avoided.
Benzonatate is an anesthetic drug and cough suppressant. When benzonatate capsules are swallowed, the medication acts directly on the lungs to reduce coughing. Benzonatate is only approved for use in individuals 10 years of age and older. Younger children who take benzonatate may experience serious toxicity or even death.
Aspirin is an over-the-counter medication used as an anti-inflammatory agent and for pain or fever relief. Low dose aspirin is used to prevent heart attacks and strokes in people with existing heart disease, and sometimes in pregnancy to prevent preeclampsia. Normal side effects include stomach upset and indigestion. Aspirin overdose can be life-threatening.
Internet pharmacies offer a convenient way to obtain prescription drugs and are frequently used by health insurers. Unfortunately, only about 4% of online pharmacies are actually legal, licensed pharmacies. Fraudulent pharmacies may allow you to purchase prescription medicines without a prescription. The medicines they send may be fake, wrong, or contaminated.
Baloxavir (Xofluza) is an oral antiviral medication used to prevent or treat influenza. Although it is approved for use in otherwise healthy people, research has shown that baloxavir can reduce influenza complications in older patients and those with chronic medical conditions with very few side effects.
Melanotan I and melanotan II are drugs that increase melanin production in the skin. Melanotan I is available as a prescription drug in the United States, while melanotan II is sold illicitly on the internet and social media platforms. Severe side effects, including kidney damage and painful erections, may occur after use of these products.
Donepezil is frequently prescribed to help treat Alzheimer's dementia. It raises levels of acetylcholine in the brain. That can modestly improve symptoms but also cause numerous adverse reactions and drug interactions. Toxic exposures can occur when patients inadvertently take extra doses and when young children access family members' medications.
Pepto Bismol contains bismuth subsalicylate and is used for stomach upset and diarrhea. Bismuth can temporarily cause black tongue and feces. Salicylate toxicity can occur after overdose. Avoid Pepto Bismol if you take aspirin regularly. It is not advisable during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Children under 12 years of age should not take salicylate products due to an increased risk for Reye’s Syndrome.
Nitrates and nitrites are abundant in the environment and are found in medicines and products in the home. Overexposure to nitrates and nitrites can lead to a condition called methemoglobinemia in which the body is deprived of oxygen, causing a blue-gray discoloration of the skin.
Generic medicines have the same active ingredients and effects as brand name medicines, but they may be a different color, shape, or size. For many years, U.S. law has required that generic drugs look different from brand names. Many different drug companies may make versions of the same medicine. Generic drugs are less expensive than brand name drugs.
Briviact® (brivaracetam) is an antiepileptic drug (AED) that is used in combination with another AED to improve control of both focal and generalized seizures. Brivaracetam commonly causes drowsiness and dizziness, so it should be used with caution when taking other sedating medications or alcohol. It can interact with drugs that are metabolized by the liver enzyme CYP2C19.
Ibuprofen is a pain medication available both over-the-counter and by prescription. It works by blocking substances produced by the body that stimulate pain and inflammation. While generally considered safe with routine use, ibuprofen increases the risk of stomach ulcers, bleeding, and kidney problems.
Lidocaine, a local anesthetic, works by causing a temporary numbing effect. When used sparingly and as directed, topical lidocaine is generally safe. Misuse, overuse, or overdose can cause serious problems and even death.
Natural products such as peppermint oil have many components. Menthol is the most abundant compound found in peppermint oil. Menthol can cause superficial irritation in small amounts and severe systemic symptoms in large amounts.
Head lice can affect just about any one. They are not dangerous but they cause miserable itching. Treating head lice involves combing the lice and their eggs (nits) from each strand of hair. Often a chemical also must be used to prevent additional lice from hatching. Follow instructions carefully. Keep products out of eyes, because they can be irritating.
Ethyl chloride is a local anesthetic agent that relieves pain by cooling the skin surface. Ethyl chloride abuse, which occurs when individuals intentionally inhale its vapors, can result in sleepiness, abnormal heart rhythms, and death. Ethyl chloride is flammable and can cause frostbite if used incorrectly.
Cough syrup is a medicine easily purchased without a prescription in drug stores. Liquid cough medicine usually contains multiple ingredients such as dextromethorphan, guaifenesin, menthol, and honey to alleviate cough and cold symptoms. Using recommended age-specific dosing guidelines is critical for safe use of this medicine.
Vaporizers can add moisture and medication to the air. This can help people who have colds, flu, or allergies. However, medicated vaporizer liquids are poisonous to swallow.
A decline in cognitive function can occur with aging and, if it interferes with daily activities, it might be diagnosed as dementia. Several drugs can produce small improvements in dementia symptoms. Adverse effects of these drugs occur frequently, and evaluation in a healthcare facility is often necessary if a person takes too much.
For young children, there is no safe dose of pills to treat diabetes. Even one pill can cause a child's blood sugar to drop dangerously low, causing seizures, coma, or death.
Grapefruit and grapefruit juice should not be consumed with certain medications. To find out if your medicines interact with grapefruit juice, read the package insert or label, or talk with your doctor and pharmacist.
Lisinopril is a prescription medication used to treat high blood pressure, manage certain kinds of heart failure, and reduce the risk of death after heart attack. Lisinopril is a long-acting medication that works by relaxing the arteries and veins of the body in order to lower blood pressure to a safe level. Lisinopril is associated with few side effects, including dizziness, headache, or cough.
Doxycycline is a common broad-spectrum antibiotic prescribed for many kinds of infections. Therapeutic doses of doxycycline are generally safe, but doxycycline may cause severe reactions. It is important to understand what doxycycline is, be aware of precautions, and know what to do in instances of unintentional ingestion, overdose, or misuse.
Erectile dysfunction (ED) medications can help treat certain medical causes of ED, but they are not without risk. Serious toxic effects have been seen in adults with use and misuse of these medications. Some “genuine” brand name products and herbal or “natural” ED products are counterfeit or mislabeled and sometimes contain dangerous substances.
Essential oils are derived from plant parts. Because they have a scent, essential oils are often used in perfumes, cosmetics, room fresheners, and flavorings. Many have a history of medicinal use, too. Misuse of essential oils can cause serious poisoning.
Medications may retain their potency after their expiration date, depending upon how they are stored. While expired medications are generally not toxic, if the drug loses its potency, the medical problem you are taking it for may not be adequately treated, causing harm.
Famotidine is a medication commonly used for heartburn, reflux, and other gastric conditions. The dosing of famotidine varies based on the condition being treated, and famotidine is usually taken once or twice daily. Side effects of famotidine include headache and constipation or diarrhea. Use of famotidine has not been associated with cancer development in humans.
Milnacipran (Savella) is one of three medications the FDA has approved to treat fibromyalgia (FM). It raises the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine in the central nervous system. Milnacipran treats the widespread pain of FM as well as helping with FM’s depression, anxiety, and sleep disturbances. Side effects are usually mild, but milnacipran can interact with other medications that raise serotonin levels leading to a hazardous condition known as serotonin syndrome.
Zinc is a natural mineral found in food. It has recently gained popularity as an immune supplement for COVID-19 but has also been explored as a preventative or therapeutic option for acne and colds. Zinc is generally safe and can typically be taken while pregnant or breastfeeding, but it can be toxic in high amounts. In addition, zinc can interact with some medications.
Tirzepatide (Zepbound) was approved in 2023 by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for weight loss. While results from clinical trials are promising, experience with the drug is limited at this time. It is important to know how to take tirzepatide and what adverse effects and interactions to look for.
Every year, nearly 100,000 adults aged 65 and older are admitted to the hospital for drug side effects. In a recent study, the majority of problems were caused by "blood thinners" (warfarin and other oral anti-thrombosis drugs) and diabetes drugs (insulin and oral diabetes medicines).
Paxlovid is an oral medication that recently received emergency use authorization from the FDA to prevent severe COVID-19 infection in high-risk individuals who test positive for the virus. While it is generally well tolerated, Paxlovid interacts with many commonly used medications, which can lead to toxicity.
Serotonin syndrome is a disorder caused by excessive serotonin activity in the human body. It often occurs after medication use and can cause potentially life-threatening symptoms including high fever, confusion, and seizures.
Naloxone (Narcan®), the antidote for opioid overdose, is a safe and effective way of preventing respiratory failure and death from opioid poisoning. Naloxone can be given by health care workers or bystanders to people with suspected opioid poisoning.
Semaglutide (Wegovy, Ozempic, Rybelsus) and liraglutide (Saxenda) are members of the GLP-1 agonist class of drugs. These prescription medications help improve blood sugar control and are often prescribed to diabetic patients. In non-diabetic patients who are overweight or obese, certain GLP-1 agonists are also approved by the FDA to help with weight control.
Tecovirimat (TPOXX®) is an antiviral drug used to treat smallpox and monkeypox infections. People with severe monkeypox disease, those with weakened immune systems, and young children may be candidates for treatment with TPOXX®. Since it is held in the Strategic National Stockpile, TPOXX® must be obtained from the CDC or local or state health departments.
Methylprednisolone is a steroid medication commonly prescribed for various conditions, including severe allergies, inflammation, breathing disorders, or ulcerative colitis. Methylprednisolone should be taken as prescribed to minimize the risk of side effects, ranging from mood changes to increased hunger.
Omeprazole is a medication that decreases the amount of acid the stomach produces. Known as a “proton pump inhibitor”, omeprazole is used to treat acid reflux and gastrointestinal ulcers. Omeprazole is available over-the-counter and as a prescription medication, but should be used with caution due to its interactions with other medications and dietary supplements.
Metformin is a medication used to treat type 2 diabetes. It has mild side effects and is generally safe when taken as prescribed. Rarely, it can cause a severe and life-threatening condition called lactic acidosis in patients with specific risk factors.
Ketamine is an anesthetic drug that is also used as a treatment for depression. Because it can cause a sense of dissociation and euphoria, ketamine is also misused as a “club drug”. Ketamine has side effects, including psychological disturbances, and should only be used under direct physician supervision.
Multiple medications, including dietary supplements, can cause fatigue or other mood disorders. People with excessive fatigue, depression, or anxiety should seek medical care for further evaluation, including a review of all medications and supplements used.
Transdermal drugs release small amounts of drug into the blood stream over a long period of time. These "skin patch" drugs include pain relievers, nicotine, hormones, and drugs to treat angina and motion sickness. Overdoses can happen if the patch is broken, cut open, or chewed on, if too many are worn, or if a child has an adult patch on.
Melatonin occurs naturally in the body and is involved in the natural regulation of sleep. Melatonin is sometimes used as a dietary supplement to help people sleep. Like other dietary supplements, there are few studies that have examined its effectiveness. Toxicity from melatonin appears to be mild.
Tacrine (Cognex) was the first drug approved by the FDA for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease. Cholinesterase inhibitor drugs like tacrine improve the symptoms of the disease and increase quality of life but do not cure or reverse Alzheimer’s disease. Newer cholinesterase inhibitors are safer and have replaced tacrine.
Compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) contain small amounts of mercury. Some of this mercury can be released into the air if the bulbs are broken. Careful cleanup of broken bulbs can minimize the risk of mercury exposure.
Cough and cold medicines are no longer recommended for children under the age of four. Ipecac syrup is no longer recommended for anyone. Mercury thermometers are now known to be a possible health risk if they break.
Mercury is a naturally occurring substance, found in air, water, and soil. It also is found in dental amalgam fillings. In sufficient quantity, mercury is known to be toxic to humans. Even so, scientific evidence, accumulated over decades, supports the view that there is no clinical evidence of mercury poisoning in people who have amalgam fillings in their mouths.
Mold is a non-scientific term for many types of unwanted fungi found both indoors and outdoors. Active mold growth requires moisture. Actively-growing mold damages the material it lives on, thereby impairing structural integrity. In addition, mold is associated with some untoward health effects in humans, including allergies and infections.
Blastomycosis is a rare fungal infection that can affect children, adults, and animals. Blastomycosis is caused by exposure to Blastomyces, a fungal species that lives in soil, decaying leaves, and wooded areas. Symptoms of blastomycosis include coughing, fevers, and fatigue. Treatment involves oral or intravenous antifungal medications.
There are old mushroom hunters, and there are bold mushroom hunters. There are no old, bold mushroom hunters.
Nicotine is the main toxic ingredient in cigarettes and cigarette butts; it is very poisonous. Nicotine acts very quickly when swallowed, and the amount contained in just one cigarette butt is enough to poison a child.
Electronic cigarettes (e-Cigs) are devices made to look like real cigarettes. They contain a battery, a heater, and liquid nicotine. When heated, the nicotine liquid becomes a vapor, which users inhale. Liquid nicotine products contain flavorings and something to help the product vaporize. Liquid nicotine products are very poisonous if swallowed.
Tobacco is obtained from plants of the genus Nicotania. It contains the chemical nicotine, which is addictive. Smoking or chewing tobacco can cause cancer, heart and lung disease, stroke, and diabetes, among other medical conditions. Poisoning symptoms include vomiting, agitation, lethargy, and seizures, as well as abnormal heart rate, blood pressure, and respiration.
It is possible for heavy smokers to develop carbon monoxide poisoning. This can be severe enough to require treatment in an emergency room.
Nicotine gummies are marketed to help adults quit smoking; however, a single gummy contains enough nicotine to poison a young child.
Many e-cigarette products have been removed from the U.S. market, but disposable e-cigarettes are still available. Disposable e-cigarettes are not meant to be refilled or recharged, but they can be easily opened using instructions found online. Exposure to the liquid contents of e-cigarettes can result in vomiting, tremors, and even death.
Windshield washer fluid contains methanol. If swallowed, methanol can cause blindness and death. Prompt treatment can reduce the toxicity of methanol.
Most brake fluids contain diethylene glycol (DEG). DEG has a sweet taste making it attractive to children and pets. DEG poisoning does not produce many initial symptoms, but it can cause substantial kidney damage if not treated promptly.
Chlorinating products for home swimming pools are generally safe for swimmers when used properly. The key to avoiding injury at the pool is prevention. Make sure to follow all the safety rules at the pool, as well as the instructions for handling all pool chemicals.
Ammonia is a chemical that can be naturally or artificially produced. The toxicity of ammonia depends on its concentration. Most household products containing ammonia are safe when used as directed, but some have the potential to cause burns. Industrial products are typically more concentrated and more likely to cause burns.
Fumes from heated metal and burning plastic products can cause flu-like illnesses in people and animals. People who weld metals at work are at risk, as are those who overheat PTFE (Teflon)-coated cookware. Getting away from the source of the fumes is the most important treatment.
Children get into gasoline most often in the summertime. If they're outside the car at the gas station, they get splashed; this can irritate the eyes or skin. If someone transfers gas to a food or drink container, kids drink it. Drinking gasoline can lead to gagging on it; this can lead to pneumonia and lung damage.
It is dangerous to swallow antifreeze, even in small amounts. The toxicity of antifreeze develops slowly as the body breaks down the antifreeze (ethylene glycol) into by-products that affect blood chemistry, the nervous system, and the kidneys.
Amphibians—frogs, newts, toads, and salamanders—are equipped with defense mechanisms deserving of much caution. Some of the potent toxins they produce include digoxin, tryptamines, and tetrodotoxin. These can cause a variety of symptoms such as irregular heart rhythm, dizziness, cardiac arrest, and paralysis. Frogs and toads are also known to spread Salmonella to humans.
Giant hogweed is the most well-known species of the genus Heracleum, a group of plants whose sap contains a chemical that can be very harmful if it touches the skin. Although the concentration of the toxic component can vary from plant to plant, it is best to avoid contact with any species in this group of plants to prevent potential injury!
Swimmer’s itch occurs when your body has an allergic reaction to parasite larvae found in swimming water. While the rash maybe uncomfortable and is often very itchy, it usually resolves with simple home treatment.
Saunas are known for promoting relaxation and may also have beneficial effects on immunity, inflammation, and cardiovascular health. While saunas are generally safe to use for most people, sauna exposure can result in dehydration, low blood pressure, and even sudden death in susceptible individuals.
Hydraulic fluids are used for the transmission of power, which is captured when the fluid is pushed from one confined place to another using pressurized tanks, pistons, and tubing. Hydraulic fluids also keep parts lubricated, transfer heat, and remove impurities. There are many types of hydraulic fluids used for different applications, and all should be considered potentially dangerous.
Cocoa bean mulch contains theobromine and caffeine, just like chocolate. These chemicals are poisonous to dogs. Dogs who swallow cocoa bean mulch could have vomiting, diarrhea, a very fast heart rate, tremors and seizures. Death is uncommon but has happened. It's impossible to tell how much cocoa bean mulch might be poisonous.
Rattlesnakes are a type of venomous pit viper found in many areas of the US. The most common symptoms of a rattlesnake bite are pain and swelling of the affected area, but more severe symptoms, such as bleeding and muscle weakness, can occur. Many rattlesnake bites require hospitalization and treatment with antivenom.
Blastomycosis is a rare fungal infection that can affect children, adults, and animals. Blastomycosis is caused by exposure to Blastomyces, a fungal species that lives in soil, decaying leaves, and wooded areas. Symptoms of blastomycosis include coughing, fevers, and fatigue. Treatment involves oral or intravenous antifungal medications.
Cement is used widely. Its high pH makes it corrosive and it can burn the skin, eyes, mouth, and lungs. The best prevention is to avoid or minimize exposure to it.
Spring can be a tough season for lawns. Homeowners sometimes use chemicals to repair winter damage and prepare the lawn for summer's rain, drought, or heat. If you decide to use chemicals to treat your lawn, choose only those chemicals which will treat your specific problem. Handle and store them safely.
While local spikes in radiation have been measured in the region around Chernobyl from soil disturbances due to the conflict in Ukraine, the increases in radiation do not pose any significant health risks for most individuals.
Motor oil can be very harmful if swallowed and aspirated into the lungs. Patients with respiratory symptoms after ingesting motor oil need to go to an ER for help. Used motor oil has contaminants, but a one-time exposure is unlikely to cause toxicity.
Dirt is a mix of sand, rocks, pebbles, and other substances. Soil contains dirt, as well as minerals and nutrients. Eating dirt or soil can cause an upset stomach, while more serious toxicity can occur with chronic eating. Some pregnant women, as well as others with an eating disorder known as pica, crave non-food items such as dirt and clay.
When used responsibly, fireworks are a fun way to celebrate with friends and family. Unfortunately, serious injuries, poisonings, and fatalities can occur when they are mishandled, unintentionally swallowed, or when they malfunction. For this reason, it is extremely important to understand the risks and follow safety guidelines when handling them.
Wildfire smoke contains fine particles that can be inhaled into the lungs or irritate your eyes. Wildfire smoke can cause respiratory problems ranging from a runny nose and slight cough to wheezing, difficulty breathing, and bronchitis. Some people experience cardiac effects, especially those with underlying heart problems. Smoke can travel long distances and persist for a long time.
Feces are waste matter eliminated from the bowels. It is the remains of food in solid or semi-solid form that have not been completely digested. It may also contain products of body metabolism, as well as bacteria and cells from the lining of the digestive tract.
Acetaminophen is a very safe medicine when used in recommended doses to treat pain and fever. But too much acetaminophen can cause liver damage and even death. This has happened when parents didn't understand the concentration or measurements. New formulations of acetaminophen for children make it easier to give the correct dose.
Acetaminophen is a very safe drug to take according to label instructions. In overdose, too much acetaminophen can damage the liver. In fact, acetaminophen overdose is an important cause of liver failure and liver transplants in the US.
Acetaminophen is a safe and effective pain reliever when taken according to label instructions. But in overdose, it is a leading cause of liver damage and death.
More than ever, adults are poisoning themselves by mistake with prescription opioid pain relievers. Many of these people die and others require days of hospital treatment to recover.
Ibuprofen, naproxen, and aspirin are non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). They are used to treat pain, fever, and inflammation. They are also found in combination products such as cough and cold medicines. An overdose of these medications may cause stomach upset, abdominal pain, and vomiting, kidney damage, ulcers, bleeding, seizures, and coma.
Heroin, an addictive, illegal drug, can cause fatal overdoses. It is an opioid, a class of drugs that includes morphine, codeine, oxycodone, and hydrocodone, among others. Heroin use is increasing due to tighter controls on prescription opioids. Naloxone is the antidote for an acute overdose. Withdrawal should be medically supervised.
Appropriate use of opioids for pain relief requires delicately balancing risks and benefits. Too much of an opioid can be dangerous or even deadly, but too little leaves the patient in pain.
When it comes to the opioid epidemic, we can all have a positive impact regardless of our social, economic, or professional status. It is important to practice safe medication use, storage, and disposal to prevent poisoning. By learning how to use the opioid reversal agent naloxone, you could save a life. Learn more by listening to our podcast, Poison!.
Synthetic opioids are powerful drugs that can cause life-threatening respiratory depression and death. These drugs are currently responsible for most of the opioid-related fatalities in the United States.
Buprenorphine is prescribed for adults with opioid dependence or chronic pain. Most buprenorphine poisoning in children occurs due to improper storage of the medication. Symptoms of buprenorphine poisoning in children are drowsiness, vomiting, slow breathing, increased heart rate, and agitation. Coma and death have also been reported.
Ethyl chloride is a local anesthetic agent that relieves pain by cooling the skin surface. Ethyl chloride abuse, which occurs when individuals intentionally inhale its vapors, can result in sleepiness, abnormal heart rhythms, and death. Ethyl chloride is flammable and can cause frostbite if used incorrectly.
Two groups of people are most at risk of prescription drug overdose in this country: people who take high doses of opioids for medical uses over a long period of time and people who abuse opioids by taking them without a medical reason for doing so.
The opioid epidemic has evolved rapidly in recent years, starting with an increase in opioid prescriptions to treat chronic pain. To reduce risk and maximize the benefits of pain treatment options, the CDC issued guidelines for opioid prescribing which recommend non-opioid medications as the preferred first step when treating chronic pain. Listen to our podcast, Poison!, to learn more.
Current responses to the opioid epidemic are inadequate. Effective treatments are underutilized, and the result is a cycle of drug use, inadequate treatment, and return to drug use. Breaking this cycle will require a lot of individual and community effort. Listen to our podcast, Poison!, to learn more.
Opioids are powerful drugs that can relieve pain but also impair breathing, leading to brain injury and death in overdose. The rising number of deaths involving opioids is referred to as the opioid epidemic. People are dying in numbers that exceed the death toll seen during the peak of the AIDS epidemic. Listen to our podcast, Poison!, to learn more.
Fentanyl is a powerful opioid pain medication as well as a common contaminant found in illicit drugs. It can cause users to stop breathing, resulting in death. The antidote naloxone (Narcan) can reverse the effects of a fentanyl overdose if given in time.
Naloxone (Narcan®), the antidote for opioid overdose, is a safe and effective way of preventing respiratory failure and death from opioid poisoning. Naloxone can be given by health care workers or bystanders to people with suspected opioid poisoning.
Pyrantel is an important drug for the control of intestinal worms in people and animals. It is estimated that close to 1 billion people are infested with intestinal worms globally. Pyrantel is a safe, effective, and inexpensive treatment for intestinal worms, and usually cures the condition after a single dose. It has very few side effects and is not known to cause severe toxicity in humans.
Organophosphate insecticides, sometimes used in and around the home, are related to some chemical warfare agents, specifically nerve agents. That fact drives home the point that insecticides must be chosen, used, and stored safely.
Pesticides to kill mice, rats, and other rodents can also harm humans (and pets). Anticoagulant rodenticides are often used. These can cause bleeding if they are eaten on a regular basis (for example, a child nibbling at a bait station).
Ant bait products are usually a combination of a food attractive to ants and an insecticide. Generally, unintentional exposures to ant baits pose little risk of toxicity due to their low concentration. Toddlers who taste ant bait products might develop nausea and vomiting. Contact with the skin or eyes can cause irritation.
Pest strips are typically made out of either glue on a paper backing or a porous strip impregnated with an organophosphate insecticide. Glue may stick to the skin or get in the eyes, but is unlikely to result in significant toxicity. However, exposure to organophosphates can be very toxic, causing muscle weakness, vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, and coma.
Mothballs are pesticides used to protect stored clothing from fiber-eating moths. They can be poisonous to people and pets if swallowed or if large amounts of fumes are inhaled.
Insecticides are chemicals that kill insects by various mechanisms. Depending on the insecticide, you may experience toxicity from ingestion, contact with skin or eyes, or inhalation. Toxicity might occur following a single acute event, as well as a short- or long-term exposure. If you are concerned about insecticide exposure, call Poison Control to find out your toxicity risk and if you need medical treatment.
Crotamiton is a medication sometimes used to treat scabies infestation. Crotamiton kills the scabies mites and helps with the intense itching associated with scabies. Although it is generally safe, some side effects have been reported. While other pesticide and drug combinations have taken the place of crotamiton as first-line therapy, it remains an option for the treatment of scabies.
DEET is an insect repellant which helps prevent bites, and illnesses, from mosquitos and ticks. There are rare reports of health problems associated with the use of DEET, but most have been because of using the product incorrectly. The potential risks of West Nile Virus, Lyme disease, and other diseases caused by infected insects surpass the slight risks associated with DEET.
Ivermectin is a beneficial and safe antiparasitic drug used for a wide variety of parasitic diseases in humans and animals. Ivermectin is helping to eliminate onchocerciasis (river blindness), a malady that has plagued millions in the world's poorest communities.
Sunscreen and insect repellent can find their way into the eyes, causing pain and irritation. Immediate rinsing with running water is the best first aid.
Pyrethroids are insecticides that act on the nervous system to paralyze and kill insects. They are less toxic to humans than to insects. Mucous membrane, skin, or eye irritation are the most common adverse effects. Often symptoms are due to an allergic reaction, especially after inhalation. Asthmatics are more likely to experience wheezing and other respiratory symptoms.
Lufenuron is used to control fleas on dogs and cats. It is not used in humans, but humans might accidentally take an animal’s medication or come into contact with it in the form of an agricultural spray. Minor side effects such as GI upset and drowsiness might occur if that happens. No human overdoses have been published.
Imidacloprid is a widely used insecticide available in various forms (e.g., liquid, powder, granules). It’s derived from nicotine and kills insects by causing dysfunction of their nervous systems. Its effects on human, other mammalian, and vertebral nervous systems are much less intense. Small unintentional exposures to imidacloprid are typically well-tolerated.
Protection against disease transmission from insect bites is an important worldwide public health issue. DEET has been the most widely used and most effective insect repellent for 60 years. Newer repellents such as picaridin, IR3535, and plant-derived oils may be somewhat safer but are not more effective than DEET.
Calla lilies are common household and garden plants, and are frequently ingested by curious children. Calla lilies release microscopic needle-like crystals, resulting in immediate burning, pain and irritation. Severe or life-threatening symptoms are rare.
Skunks spray to repel potential predators with a foul-smelling, oily secretion stored in their perianal glands. For humans, it usually does not result in much more than short-term irritation. In dogs, in addition to irritation it can rarely cause a more serious condition in which the red blood cells are destroyed. Leaving skunks (as well as all wildlife) alone and making your home less attractive and inaccessible to them are the keys to prevention.
So many poison prevention stories are about children, but when it comes to home remodeling, adults are at risk, too. Children, adults, and pets can become sick if home renovations are not carried out carefully.
Easter Lily is the common name for Lilium longiflorum. This fragrant seasonal plant is extremely poisonous for cats. Eating small amounts of any part of this plant can cause dangerous symptoms and lead to death from kidney failure.
Fumes from heated metal and burning plastic products can cause flu-like illnesses in people and animals. People who weld metals at work are at risk, as are those who overheat PTFE (Teflon)-coated cookware. Getting away from the source of the fumes is the most important treatment.
A number of holiday decorations and treats can be hazards to a pet's health. Batteries can cause internal burns, water from tree stands and left-over food can contain bacteria, and decorations and plants can be choking hazards. Also, human medicines may be more easily in reach.
Medication errors can be dangerous for humans and for pets. An overdose of the pet's own medicine can be harmful, even fatal. Some human medicines are very dangerous for pets. Drug interactions can occur in pets, just as they can in humans. Be as careful about medicating pets as you are about medicating your children or yourself.
Tea tree oil has been used as a "natural" remedy for a long time, especially for skin afflictions. There is very little scientific evidence that tea tree oil is effective for most skin conditions. It is poisonous if swallowed, so it should not be used in or around the mouth.
Ice-melting chemicals commonly contain sodium chloride or rock salt, calcium chloride, potassium chloride, magnesium chloride, and/or urea, also known as carbonyl diamide. If swallowed, they can be irritating and cause stomach distress. On the skin or paws, they can cause irritation and dryness.
When swallowed by dogs, chocolate can cause nausea, vomiting, tremors, and seizures. Effects can begin within a short time. Treatment should begin quickly. There are no specific antidotes for this poisoning in animals.
Ibuprofen, naproxen, and aspirin are non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). They are used to treat pain, fever, and inflammation. They are also found in combination products such as cough and cold medicines. An overdose of these medications may cause stomach upset, abdominal pain, and vomiting, kidney damage, ulcers, bleeding, seizures, and coma.
It is dangerous to swallow antifreeze, even in small amounts. The toxicity of antifreeze develops slowly as the body breaks down the antifreeze (ethylene glycol) into by-products that affect blood chemistry, the nervous system, and the kidneys.
You can gauge the extent and location of your dog's pain by watching his behavior, mood, and response to being touched. Anything more than very mild pain requires examination by a veterinarian who can prescribe the most appropriate medication. Over-the-counter pain medications intended for humans should never be used in dogs without consulting a veterinarian.
Bites and scratches from a healthy-appearing cat can make you sick. Always tell your healthcare provider about cat bites and scratches if you have unexplained symptoms, especially fever.
Apoquel® is the brand name for oclacitinib, a medication approved for use in dogs to stop itching caused by many different reasons. This medication is similar to corticosteroids but, has fewer side effects. Oclacitinib is only indicated for use in dogs and is not for human consumption.
Boxwood plants and hedges are common and generally present low toxicity for humans. However, when eaten they can be toxic for animals including dogs, cats, and horses.
Xylitol is a sweetener that is safe for humans but poisonous to pets.
Mothballs are pesticides used to protect stored clothing from fiber-eating moths. They can be poisonous to people and pets if swallowed or if large amounts of fumes are inhaled.
Cocoa bean mulch contains theobromine and caffeine, just like chocolate. These chemicals are poisonous to dogs. Dogs who swallow cocoa bean mulch could have vomiting, diarrhea, a very fast heart rate, tremors and seizures. Death is uncommon but has happened. It's impossible to tell how much cocoa bean mulch might be poisonous.
The castor bean is the seed of the castor oil plant (Ricinus communis). It contains a highly toxic compound called ricin, which is released when the seed is crushed or chewed. Ricin prevents cells from making proteins, which are essential to life. Although castor oil is made from the same seeds, it does not contain ricin.
Blastomycosis is a rare fungal infection that can affect children, adults, and animals. Blastomycosis is caused by exposure to Blastomyces, a fungal species that lives in soil, decaying leaves, and wooded areas. Symptoms of blastomycosis include coughing, fevers, and fatigue. Treatment involves oral or intravenous antifungal medications.
Caustic products cause burns on contact with skin, eyes, and the gastrointestinal tract. More than other household products, caustic substances do their damage instantly. Injury cannot be reversed, only treated.
Christmas tree preservatives aren't necessary. Commercial preservatives may cause stomach upset and vomiting in children and pets who swallow them. Home-made preservatives may contain ingredients that are harmful to children and pets.
There are special poisoning concerns during the winter: family travel, family gatherings, carbon monoxide poisoning, and winter chemicals for the car. Follow Poison Control's prevention tips to keep your family safe this winter.
Feces are waste matter eliminated from the bowels. It is the remains of food in solid or semi-solid form that have not been completely digested. It may also contain products of body metabolism, as well as bacteria and cells from the lining of the digestive tract.
Calla lilies are common household and garden plants, and are frequently ingested by curious children. Calla lilies release microscopic needle-like crystals, resulting in immediate burning, pain and irritation. Severe or life-threatening symptoms are rare.
Pokeberries are found in grape-like clusters on tall perennials with purple-red stems. Eating several berries can cause stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Adults have eaten the roots, mistaking them for medicinal plants. Serious symptoms have subsequently occurred, including bloody vomiting, bloody diarrhea, and low blood pressure.
Easter Lily is the common name for Lilium longiflorum. This fragrant seasonal plant is extremely poisonous for cats. Eating small amounts of any part of this plant can cause dangerous symptoms and lead to death from kidney failure.
Aconitum napellus flowers look beautiful, but swallowing any part of the plant could be deadly.
Many people believe homeopathic remedies are safe because they are natural and contain a small amount of active ingredient. However, homeopathic products are not uniformly regulated, and homeopathy is not a standardized medical practice. Inconsistencies in final product formulations and practitioner certifications can lead to dangerous consequences.
The berries of the holly plant are poisonous to people and pets. Swallowing them can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
The California poppy (Echscholzia californica) has been used as an herbal product and can be purchased as as capsules, tablets, loose leaves for tea, and an extract. The plant contains several alkaloids which some believe can help with sleep, anxiety, and pain. However, there are no useful studies conducted in humans that support these claims.
The Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta) is a wildflower that blooms from June to October. They have bright yellow, daisy-like petals. Although the black-eyed Susan has not been known to poison humans, it should not be eaten. It can cause allergic skin reactions and asthma attacks in people sensitive to the plant.
Alocasia plants make stunning houseplants, but they can be harmful if the plant material is chewed on or swallowed. These plants contain oxalate crystals that can cause mouth pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. They should be kept away from children and pets.
Some plants can be poisonous if you eat them. Others can hurt you if you get them on your skin. For some plants, all parts of the plant are poisonous. For others, only certain parts of the plant are harmful. The danger can range from mild irritation to severe illness or death. Check our our list of selected poisonous and non-poisonous plants.
Just because something is "natural", it isn't necessarily safe to casually eat or use. Originally, all remedies came from nature. Yew is an example of a plant with medicinal value that can be poisonous if eaten.
Poison ivy, poison oak, and poison sumac can cause rashes if someone touches them. The rash is caused by oils in the plants. It may be severe enough to blister and itch for days or weeks. Most cases can be managed at home with household and OTC products. Severe cases require medical attention. If these plants are burned, inhaling the smoke can cause severe breathing problems.
Both Dieffenbachia and Philodendron are great houseplants for beginners. However, both plants contain oxalates which can cause swelling, drooling, and loss of speech if swallowed. Swelling, redness, and irritation can also occur if the skin or eyes are exposed. Dieffenbachia and Philodendron plants should be handled carefully and kept away from children and pets.
Serious poisoning is unlikely when small pieces of azalea or rhododendron are swallowed. But swallowing large amounts of any part of the plant or honey made from these flowering plants can cause life-threatening symptoms.
Although they are pretty, Virginia creeper and wisteria can be harmful if they are chewed or swallowed. Both plants can cause mouth pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea and should not be eaten.
Giant hogweed is the most well-known species of the genus Heracleum, a group of plants whose sap contains a chemical that can be very harmful if it touches the skin. Although the concentration of the toxic component can vary from plant to plant, it is best to avoid contact with any species in this group of plants to prevent potential injury!
Poison ivy can cause a rash if someone touches it, which is caused by oils in the plant. The rash can be severe enough to blister and itch for days or weeks. Most cases can be managed at home. Severe cases require medical attention. If these plants are burned, inhaling the smoke can cause severe breathing problems.
The bark, seeds, and leaves of black locust trees contain poisonous compounds called toxalbumins. They are toxic to both livestock and humans and have been reported to cause symptoms from gastrointestinal distress to nervous system disorders. Any exposure to black locust should be taken seriously, and professional guidance should sought.
Chinaberry trees are an invasive species that can be harmful if any part is chewed on or swallowed. Ingestions of small amounts of plant material can cause gastrointestinal upset such as vomiting and diarrhea within 1 hour. Most reports of large ingestions resulting in severe symptoms have occurred in animals.
The seeds of morning glory contain a chemical similar to LSD. Eating enough of them can cause many types of symptoms, from diarrhea to hallucinations requiring medical care.
The poinsettia plant is often considered deadly. That's wrong. Poinsettia can be irritating but it is not fatal if eaten. If children and pets eat it, they can develop a mouth rash and stomach upset. The sap can cause a skin rash, too.
Cocklebur seeds might look and taste like sunflower seeds but they should never be eaten! The seeds can cause abdominal pain, vomiting, low blood sugar, seizures, and severe liver injury.
Pyracantha is an evergreen shrub often used in landscaping. The shrub typically has plentiful orange-red berries and needle-like thorns. The berries have not been shown to be toxic to animals or humans, although swallowing large amounts might cause some mild stomach upset.
Boxwood plants and hedges are common and generally present low toxicity for humans. However, when eaten they can be toxic for animals including dogs, cats, and horses.
The pits of stone fruits like cherries naturally contain a cyanide-producing chemical. Small, unintentional ingestions of intact stone fruit pits generally do not cause harm. Crushing or chewing pits before swallowing can result in the release of cyanide. The use of stone fruit pits as complementary or alternative medicine is unsupported by scientific evidence.
The peace lily is one of the most common household plants Poison Control is called about. The flowers, leaves, and stems of the peace lily contain very small, insoluble calcium oxalate crystal that can cause immediate mouth and throat irritation if chewed or swallowed.
Euphorbia, also known as spurges, is a genus of over 2000 different flowering plants. These plants contain a milky white sap that can be very irritating to the skin, eyes, and mouth. If someone is exposed to spurge sap, it is important to decontaminate the exposed area.
Poison hemlock is a deadly plant that looks dangerously similar to other edible plants. Modern day exposures are often the result of plant misidentification.
Mescal beans grow inside the pale pods of the mountain laurel tree. Mescal beans have been used for ceremonial purposes, but they are not chemically related to the similar sounding hallucinogen mescaline found in peyote. A taste of a mescal bean should not be toxic, but intentional ingestions by people seeking “legal highs” can be dangerous.
The castor bean is the seed of the castor oil plant (Ricinus communis). It contains a highly toxic compound called ricin, which is released when the seed is crushed or chewed. Ricin prevents cells from making proteins, which are essential to life. Although castor oil is made from the same seeds, it does not contain ricin.
All parts of the daffodil are toxic. When swallowed, it can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Eating the bulb can cause severe irritation of the mouth and stomach upset. These symptoms are usually not life threatening and resolve within a few hours.
To a child, wild berries look good enough to eat. Only some of them are. Others are poisonous. Some are not actually poisonous but can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
The bird of paradise plant has stunning flowers. It is an ideal houseplant because it is low-maintenance and is considered minimally toxic to humans. A small, unintentional ingestion by a child can result in gastrointestinal effects including vomiting and diarrhea. Swallowing a larger piece can potentially lead to choking. This plant may be poisonous for animals.
All parts of the Spanish broom plant (Spartium junceum) are considered toxic. It can cause symptoms ranging from abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea to more serious effects like seizures and respiratory failure.
Tulips are beautiful and hardy plants grown from bulbs. Although a variety of symptoms have followed eating tulip bulbs, the exact toxicity of the plant when eaten has not been fully established. However, a well-documented toxicity from handling tulips is known as "tulip fingers."
Milkweed grows throughout the US and is essential for the survival of monarch butterflies. All parts of the plant contain toxic cardiac glycosides, which can cause nausea, diarrhea, weakness, and confusion in small amounts, and seizures, heart rhythm changes, respiratory paralysis, and even death in large amounts. Milkweed can also irritate the skin and eyes if touched.
The common or lesser periwinkle (Vinca minor) has traditionally been used to treat several illnesses. It is always best to consult with your primary care provider and pharmacist before starting any herbal or supplement regimen to avoid any potential interactions with prescription or over-the-counter medications.
Onions are pungent, contain plentiful nutrients, and have many potential health benefits. When cut or damaged, onions can cause eye irritation and tear production due to the formation of a sulfur-containing chemical (called “lachrymatory factor”).
The flowering stems of many wild grasses have a unique foxtail-like shape that allows them to be easily inhaled by humans or animals. The inhalation—also known as aspiration—of wild grass can cause coughing, respiratory irritation, and lung disease, such as pneumonia, which can be very difficult to diagnose and treat.
In the woods or in the garden, nature can surprise the unprepared.
Foxglove grows throughout the United States. It grows in the wild and is often cultivated for its beauty in private gardens. All parts of the plant are poisonous, possibly even deadly, if swallowed.
Mechanical injury, chemical irritation, allergic reactions, and light-sensitivity are all possible effects of exposure to certain plants – not just poison ivy.
Peppermint oil is an aromatic and flavoring agent that contains up to 50% menthol. While it is promoted for many ailments, studies showing effectiveness are primarily for some digestive tract illnesses. If small amounts are swallowed, inhaled, or applied to skin or eyes, it can cause irritation and burning. Large doses can cause serious toxicity due to the menthol.
Mistletoe has a reputation for being deadly, but is that reputation deserved? Until recent studies were published, the American mistletoe genus, Phoradendron, was widely considered to be extremely poisonous. Swallowing American mistletoe can cause symptoms such as gastrointestinal upset but is not likely to cause serious poisoning in small, unintentional ingestions.
White mulberry is a leafy tree that grows across the United States. The leaves contain considerable amounts of fiber and protein, and white mulberry leaf extracts are used as a dietary supplement for management of blood sugar, weight, and other conditions. White mulberry is generally associated with few adverse effects in humans.
Bisphenol A (BPA), a chemical used to harden plastic, is found in a number of consumer products, including hard plastic drinking containers and the linings of infant formula and food cans. In animal studies, BPA imitates effects of estrogen. There is controversy about whether animal studies are relevant to humans. Some scientists and consumers suggest reducing exposure to BPA.
Microplastics are common throughout our environment and are present in the air, food, and drinking water. Microplastics have also been found in the human body, but it’s unclear if they cause undesirable health effects.
Rapid home COVID-19 antigen tests contain a small amount of the toxic chemical sodium azide, but the risk of poisoning is low when these tests are used and disposed of properly.
More than 1.4 million children get into poisons every year. Preventing poisonings is most important. But, if children do get into a poison, call Poison Control right away. The 24-hour number is 1-800-222-1222.
More than 1.4 million children get into poisons every year. Preventing poisonings is most important. But, if children do get into a poison, call Poison Control right away. The 24-hour number is 1-800-222-1222.
Transferring a chemical into a soft drink bottle is a recipe for disaster…or death.
Most of us are thinking about love, chocolates and flowers on Valentine's Day, not about poison. Let's also keep the day poison-free by following a few quick tips from Poison Control. Enjoy those treats!
Grandparents can be bewildered by today's safety recommendations: yes to car seats and bare cribs; no to walkers. There are many new medicines now, too. Some of them can be dangerous for children who swallow only one tablet. Grandparents' medicines are among the most dangerous causes of childhood poisoning.
Children will swallow anything they can reach. Most of the time, these objects pass through the gastrointestinal tract with no trouble; the object turns up in the child's stool. Sometimes, surgery is needed to remove the object(s). In one recent study, coins made up 80 percent of swallowed foreign objects that had to be removed by surgery.
Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are present in our everyday lives in products including stain-resistant fabrics, non-stick cookware, and food packaging. While some research has suggested an association with PFAS exposure and harmful effects on human health, more research is needed to fully define the health effects of PFAS exposure.
The most frequent calls from offices to Poison Control are about drinking coffee pot cleaner instead of coffee, eating left-over food from an office party or the office refrigerator, and breathing in fumes from the photocopier.
Nitrogen is the most abundant gas in the air we breathe. Liquid nitrogen is extremely cold and is used in medical, scientific, industrial, commercial, and even culinary settings where extreme cold is required. Although liquid nitrogen is generally inert if untouched, it has the potential to cause severe injury and even death if handled improperly.
Cough and cold medicines are no longer recommended for children under the age of four. Ipecac syrup is no longer recommended for anyone. Mercury thermometers are now known to be a possible health risk if they break.
Antifreeze is a sweet-tasting poison. Studies show that adding a bittering agent to antifreeze does not decrease poisonings or suicides with antifreeze.
More young children now visit U.S. emergency rooms for drug poisonings than for car crashes. The most dangerous prescription medicines for children to get into include those for diabetes, anxiety, muscle spasms, sleep problems, heart disease, and high blood pressure, and opioid (narcotic) pain relievers.
Transferring products from their original containers to unlabeled beverage or other containers happens all too often. Think only children mistake the contents for juice or soda? Not so! Adults unintentionally drink these poisons too. Sometimes the result is only throat irritation or vomiting, but sometimes the consequences are serious.
Wherever you travel in the United States, expert help from Poison Control is just a click or phone call away. Download the webPOISONCONTROL® app, bookmark webPOISONCONTROL.org, and program 1-800-222-1222, the nationwide phone number, in your phone. Poison Control is available nationwide.
The most important part of taking or giving medicine happens before taking or giving that drug: reading and understanding the label. This is the easiest way to prevent errors and overdoses. All over-the-counter (OTC) medication labels contain Drug Facts: important information about the active ingredient(s), uses, warnings, doses, and directions.
Lacrimators are chemicals that cause tear production and are typically used for personal protection and crowd control. These chemicals cause intense irritation to the eyes, skin, and lungs and can temporarily incapacitate a person. The most common lacrimator is pepper spray.
Ivermectin is a beneficial and safe antiparasitic drug used for a wide variety of parasitic diseases in humans and animals. Ivermectin is helping to eliminate onchocerciasis (river blindness), a malady that has plagued millions in the world's poorest communities.
There are many ways to make mistakes with medicines. Among the most common are taking the wrong medicine, taking too much medicine, giving the wrong medicine, and confusing one medicine for another. Problems from these mix-ups could range from minor to extremely serious.
Proper use of fire extinguishers is generally safe; however, there is some risk for mild respiratory, skin, or eye irritation. Use in areas with poor air flow, use with intent to harm someone, or intentional inhalation of fire extinguishers can produce serious toxicity and would require medical evaluation.
After decades providing service by telephone only, we're expanding access to poison control guidance. Now you can get personalized and accurate poison help ONLINE with webPOISONCONTROL®. Support this innovation! Its future depends on you.
Household product labels often contain the wrong information - or no information - about treating poisonings.
The weather is perfect for a cookout or picnic. Family and friends gather. And the kids are…getting into things like they always do. Spending a little time to think through outdoor activities can keep poisons from spoiling your fun, for adults and children alike.
The fall opera season has opened. To twenty-first century audiences, the following nineteenth-century abbreviated plot summaries may seem laughable. But to operatic true believers, they provide the basis for gorgeous music.
From the magical to the horrifying, children's stories provide a long list of poison prevention DON'Ts. There is a common theme in most of these magical stories, however. Poison prevention is important for people and animals of all ages, and seeking help is very important.
Many household items are non-toxic (not poisonous) to children, even though they sound scary. Birth control pills, silica gel packets that say "do not eat", and potting soil are among them. BUT young children can choke on non-toxic products.
Silica gel is usually considered non-toxic. Accidentally swallowing a silica gel packet should not result in symptoms unless the person chokes on it. Rarely, the packet may cause a blockage in the digestive tract. Contact of the packet contents with skin, eyes, or by inhalation may cause mild irritation.
The beginning of warmer weather is the beginning of snakebite season. Many of these bites occur around people's homes, but bites can occur anywhere. While there are several species of venomous snakes in the United States, the majority of domestic snakes are not venomous. Be sure to call Poison Control or seek medical attention if someone is bitten.
Cottonmouth snakes are a type of venomous pit viper found in the South East US. They are semiaquatic and are found near water, which is why they are also referred to as water moccasins. Cottonmouths prefer to leave you alone, but occasionally do bite. The most common symptoms of a cottonmouth bite are pain and swelling of the affected area, which may need treatment with antivenom.
Copperheads are venomous snakes. Their bites can cause local pain, swelling, redness, bruising, and blistering, as well as systemic symptoms like low blood pressure and bleeding. In some cases, no symptoms are present. Serious effects are rare. If a bite occurs, stay calm, immobilize the bite area, and seek help from experts.
Coral snakes usually have a pattern of red, black, and yellow (or white) colored rings that span their bodies. Although uncommon, coral snake bites can potentially lead to severe neurotoxicity, including complete respiratory failure, if left untreated. All suspected envenomations should be evaluated and monitored in a hospital for at least 24 hours due to the delayed onset of symptoms.
Rattlesnakes are a type of venomous pit viper found in many areas of the US. The most common symptoms of a rattlesnake bite are pain and swelling of the affected area, but more severe symptoms, such as bleeding and muscle weakness, can occur. Many rattlesnake bites require hospitalization and treatment with antivenom.
In the woods or in the garden, nature can surprise the unprepared.
Delta-8 THC is similar to delta-9 THC, the main psychoactive ingredient of cannabis, although it is less potent. The legal status of delta-8 THC is vague; it is legal in some states but has been restricted or banned in others. In states where the sale of delta-8 THC is legal, packaging may not be child-resistant, and may feature bright colors, cartoon-like images, or other features that are attractive to young children and adolescents.
Delta-9 THC-O acetate is a synthetic derivative of cannabis and causes psychoactive effects like those of delta-9 THC. There are limited available studies of delta-9 THC-O acetate’s clinical effects in humans, so caution is advised when using this product.
Inhalant abuse means trying to get high by breathing in vapors, fumes, or aerosol sprays. Thousands of products can be abused by inhaling. These are ordinary household products – and they are poisons. Nearly 20 percent of eighth-graders admit to abusing inhalants, but most parents don't even know about it. Inhalants can kill – even the first time.
Secondhand smoke is smoke breathed in by people other than active smokers. Secondhand smoke can cause lung cancer, heart disease, and stroke in adults. Infants and children may experience respiratory problems, lung and ear infections, and other ailments. Secondhand smoke is not safe in pregnancy as it can increase the risk of miscarriage, low birth weight, and premature birth.
Dextromethorphan is an over-the-counter cough suppressant found in more than 120 cough and cold products. Recreational abuse has become increasingly common and leads to approximately 6000 emergency room visits a year. Recreational users intentionally exceed recommended doses to experience heightened awareness, altered time perception, and visual hallucinations.
Newer drugs of abuse are sending thousands of people to emergency rooms. They're called "fake pot", "fake weed", and "fake cocaine", but their effects are real and dangerous. Users cannot know exactly what they are getting when they buy and use these drugs. Some users of these drugs are ill for days and some have died.
"Spice", K2, and fake weed are some of the names given to illegal plant-based substances intended to imitate marijuana. Symptoms can range from anxiety and psychiatric disorders to death. "Bath salts" is a name for a synthetic chemical meant to act like cocaine or amphetamine. Users have had seizures, high blood pressure, and hallucinations; some have died.
Some ordinary kitchen ingredients can be harmful if children swallow large amounts. Examples include alcohol-based flavoring extracts, oil of wintergreen, and nutmeg. Poppy seeds can cause a positive drug screen if someone eats a lot shortly before a drug test.
Heroin, an addictive, illegal drug, can cause fatal overdoses. It is an opioid, a class of drugs that includes morphine, codeine, oxycodone, and hydrocodone, among others. Heroin use is increasing due to tighter controls on prescription opioids. Naloxone is the antidote for an acute overdose. Withdrawal should be medically supervised.
Appropriate use of opioids for pain relief requires delicately balancing risks and benefits. Too much of an opioid can be dangerous or even deadly, but too little leaves the patient in pain.
When it comes to the opioid epidemic, we can all have a positive impact regardless of our social, economic, or professional status. It is important to practice safe medication use, storage, and disposal to prevent poisoning. By learning how to use the opioid reversal agent naloxone, you could save a life. Learn more by listening to our podcast, Poison!.
Needle spiking involves the secret injection of poisonous substances into unsuspecting individuals and represents a form of drug-facilitated crime. It is a scary concept but it is also fortunately a rare occurrence.
Synthetic opioids are powerful drugs that can cause life-threatening respiratory depression and death. These drugs are currently responsible for most of the opioid-related fatalities in the United States.
The seeds of morning glory contain a chemical similar to LSD. Eating enough of them can cause many types of symptoms, from diarrhea to hallucinations requiring medical care.
Propylhexedrine (Benzedrex) inhalers can be bought without a prescription for use as a nasal decongestant but can be abused to help study or to get high. They should not be used for these purposes.
Buprenorphine is prescribed for adults with opioid dependence or chronic pain. Most buprenorphine poisoning in children occurs due to improper storage of the medication. Symptoms of buprenorphine poisoning in children are drowsiness, vomiting, slow breathing, increased heart rate, and agitation. Coma and death have also been reported.
"Molly" is slang for an illegal street drug. It is often thought to be a "pure" form of the illegal drugs Ecstasy or MDMA. However, capsules or powder called "Molly" often contain other illegal drugs, legal drugs, sugar, baking powder, soap, or other household substances. Taking "Molly" can be fatal. Even first-time users have died.
While pink cocaine is in fact pink, it often does not contain cocaine, but a mixture of other potentially dangerous drugs, including 2-CB, MDMA (ecstasy), ketamine, and caffeine in various amounts. This mixture can cause serious adverse effects and lead to long-term addiction.
Poppers are recreational drugs containing alkyl nitrites. They are used for muscle relaxation and aphrodisia but their use can cause low oxygen levels, difficulty breathing, and feeling faint. In severe or untreated cases, death can occur. Due to the severe health problems that can occur with the use of poppers, the FDA has warned consumers not to use these products.
Two groups of people are most at risk of prescription drug overdose in this country: people who take high doses of opioids for medical uses over a long period of time and people who abuse opioids by taking them without a medical reason for doing so.
“Demon” is a street drug formulated as a powder that gained attention in the spring of 2024. It was associated with an outbreak of severe poisonings on the east coast. Initial laboratory testing has demonstrated it contains a dangerous mixture of drugs that can be potentially fatal.
The opioid epidemic has evolved rapidly in recent years, starting with an increase in opioid prescriptions to treat chronic pain. To reduce risk and maximize the benefits of pain treatment options, the CDC issued guidelines for opioid prescribing which recommend non-opioid medications as the preferred first step when treating chronic pain. Listen to our podcast, Poison!, to learn more.
Current responses to the opioid epidemic are inadequate. Effective treatments are underutilized, and the result is a cycle of drug use, inadequate treatment, and return to drug use. Breaking this cycle will require a lot of individual and community effort. Listen to our podcast, Poison!, to learn more.
Ecstasy, an illegal drug of abuse, is a stimulant related to amphetamine. An ecstasy overdose can cause high blood pressure, a rapid heart rate, seizures, dehydration, a dangerously high body temperature, and death. An ecstasy user who develops medical distress should be seen promptly in an emergency room.
Opioids are powerful drugs that can relieve pain but also impair breathing, leading to brain injury and death in overdose. The rising number of deaths involving opioids is referred to as the opioid epidemic. People are dying in numbers that exceed the death toll seen during the peak of the AIDS epidemic. Listen to our podcast, Poison!, to learn more.
Fentanyl is a powerful opioid pain medication as well as a common contaminant found in illicit drugs. It can cause users to stop breathing, resulting in death. The antidote naloxone (Narcan) can reverse the effects of a fentanyl overdose if given in time.
Nitazenes are a class of synthetic opioids that are being found more frequently in the illicit drug supply. Fentanyl and similar drugs remain the predominant cause of overdose deaths in the US in 2024. Treatment for opioid use and harm-reduction strategies, such as naloxone (i.e., Narcan) distribution, are important in preventing overdose deaths.
Tianeptine is a medication approved in some non-US countries for anxiety and depression. It has not been approved by the FDA, but there has been an increase in people using tianeptine in the US. Taking tianeptine can lead to adverse effects and sometimes overdose. Tianeptine can be abused and severe withdrawal symptoms can occur when people who are dependent stop taking it.
Kratom is an herbal substance with stimulant- and opioid-like properties. Although not FDA-approved, it is present in many products. It has been used to treat a variety of conditions, including pain and fatigue. Kratom is also used to get high, as an alternative to typical opioids, and for opioid withdrawal. It can cause serious adverse effects both in overdose and routine use.
Halloween treats are great. Tricks are not! Go with your children when they trick-or-treat. Look at the goodies before they're eaten. Rinse liquid from glow sticks out of eyes if it's splashed. Drink some water if it's swallowed. And, stick to actual cosmetics meant for the skin when making up.
Children will swallow anything they can reach. Most of the time, these objects pass through the gastrointestinal tract with no trouble; the object turns up in the child's stool. Sometimes, surgery is needed to remove the object(s). In one recent study, coins made up 80 percent of swallowed foreign objects that had to be removed by surgery.
Some Aqua Dots® craft sets were contaminated with a chemical that can cause coma and other symptoms.
Sets of tiny, strong magnets were sold as adult toys but often were swallowed by children, resulting in serious injury and even death. The magnets, or a magnet and another metal object, stuck to each other, even through folds of intestine or tissue. This pinched off blood supply to the area, causing tissue death, bleeding, and infection.
Art products are mixtures of chemicals and should be used correctly. It's common for children to swallow these products or get them on the skin or eye. Most of the time, the children are fine but mishaps can occur, especially eye or skin irritation.
There are two main types of artificial snow: powders that are mixed with water and spray-on aerosols. In most small exposures, neither product type is likely to cause severe problems, but swallowing the powder or spraying the aerosol directly onto the skin or into the eyes can cause symptoms.
Bubble solution is a mix of dish soap and water. A wand is dipped into the solution and bubbles are formed by blowing gently on the wand or by swinging the wand back and forth. Since the dish soap is diluted in water, it is unlikely to cause toxicity if swallowed or splashed in the eye. Bubble solution may cause mild upset stomach if swallowed.
Some children have been poisoned by lead and cadmium in children's products. Cadmium is a metal which, if swallowed, can cause kidney and bone damage. There are no proven effective treatments for excess cadmium in the body, so preventing cadmium poisoning is the most important thing.
Play-Doh is a reusable modeling product made mostly of water, salt, and flour. It is not toxic. However, if a large amount is swallowed, it may cause a mild upset stomach. It may also be a choking hazard in young children. Rarely, contact dermatitis may occur. Since it contains flour, Play-Doh can trigger a gluten allergy.
A glow stick is a plastic tube containing two reactive chemicals, which combine when the tube is bent, resulting in a luminescent glow. Glow sticks are not poisonous. If swallowed, mouth irritation and an upset stomach may occur. The liquid can also cause skin and eye irritation. If the glow stick breaks and the liquid leaks into your mouth, eyes, or skin, rinse with water.
Super glue is cyanoacrylate, an acrylic resin that forms a strong adhesive bond. The main adverse effect is bonding of 2 surfaces such as lips, eye lids, or fingers. It can cause irritation and pain. Do not pull bonded areas apart. Soaking in water, acetone, or isopropyl alcohol or lubricating with oil or petroleum jelly may shorten bonding time.
Kinetic Sand is a fun sensory toy. Sand is not poisonous when swallowed, but it might cause constipation or gastrointestinal obstruction.
Autism is a life-long condition that begins in childhood, typically by age 2. Many people believe that there is a link between autism and childhood vaccination. There is no scientific controversy over whether vaccines cause autism: the answer is "no".
A Myers' cocktail contains vitamins and electrolytes and is used to treat various medical conditions. Although the ingredients are natural and seemingly safe, this treatment is associated with adverse effects and there is limited evidence supporting the benefits of its use.
Iron is essential to our health. It is found naturally in many foods, added to some fortified food products, and widely available as a supplement. An overdose of iron supplements can be life-threatening.
Many people believe homeopathic remedies are safe because they are natural and contain a small amount of active ingredient. However, homeopathic products are not uniformly regulated, and homeopathy is not a standardized medical practice. Inconsistencies in final product formulations and practitioner certifications can lead to dangerous consequences.
Lutein, a nutrient found mainly in leafy green vegetables, is thought to protect against light-induced retina damage. While some studies show positive results from lutein use, more research is needed to determine its definitive benefits and safety.
Vitamin D, along with calcium, is essential for developing and maintaining strong bones and muscles. Some researchers have associated low vitamin D levels with chronic illnesses, but research findings about the health consequences of low vitamin D are not consistent. Taking higher doses of vitamin D should be done only with the recommendation and supervision of a health professional.
Vitamin D is important for healthy bone function and may have effects on other disease processes. Vitamin D deficiency is common, especially in people who do not have regular exposure to sunlight or who have chronic medical conditions. Use of vitamin D supplements can help improve vitamin D levels in deficient individuals.
Multivitamins are easy to obtain and are a great source of vitamins and nutrients. Some people may need multivitamins because they do not have enough nutrients in their daily diet. However, people with certain medical conditions may want to avoid multivitamins or limit their use.
Zinc is a natural mineral found in food. It has recently gained popularity as an immune supplement for COVID-19 but has also been explored as a preventative or therapeutic option for acne and colds. Zinc is generally safe and can typically be taken while pregnant or breastfeeding, but it can be toxic in high amounts. In addition, zinc can interact with some medications.
Chlorine dioxide and sodium chlorite are highly reactive disinfectants used to treat public water systems. They are also low-concentration ingredients in some mouthwash products. A sip is unlikely to cause anything beyond mild irritation, nausea, and short-term vomiting. Large amounts can oxidize red blood cells, making them incapable of carrying oxygen.
Nitrates and nitrites are abundant in the environment and are found in medicines and products in the home. Overexposure to nitrates and nitrites can lead to a condition called methemoglobinemia in which the body is deprived of oxygen, causing a blue-gray discoloration of the skin.
E. coli is a normal gut bacterium, but there are several types that cause food poisoning. Sources include contaminated water, raw or undercooked ground meat, unpasteurized milk, raw vegetables, fecal-oral transmission, and food handlers. Most types of E. coli cause diarrhea (watery or bloody). Vomiting, abdominal cramps, fever, and kidney failure are also possible symptoms. The best treatment is hydration.
There are many ways for drugs and personal care products to enter ground water and surface water, which include water that we drink and use for recreation. Federal guidelines for safe disposal of medicines aim to prevent unintentional poisonings, misuse and diversion of discarded drugs, and to keep drugs within engineered landfills, instead of in the water supply.
Water from a private well can be threatened by numerous contaminants, either naturally or due to human activities. Many contaminants can have detrimental health effects. While the Safe Drinking Water Act ensures the safety of public water supply systems, the responsibility for ensuring the quality and safety of private well water falls on the owner.
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