For many years parents were advised to keep a bottle of syrup of ipecac on hand so they could induce vomiting if their child swallowed certain poisonous substances. However, recent research has shown no improvement in the outcome of an accidental poisoning when syrup of ipecac is used at home. In addition, children can suffer greater injury if syrup of ipecac is used for the wrong poisons.

<(Ipecac should never be used if a person has swallowed a strong corrosive such as drain opener, toilet bowl cleaner, or an acid. It is also not recommended for first aid if petroleum distillates like kerosene, gasoline, furniture polish, or lighter fluid have been swallowed. Vomiting in these cases can be dangerous!)

Recently the Oklahoma State Department of Health and the Oklahoma Poison Control Center (OPCC) joined the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) in recommending that syrup of ipecac no longer be used regularly as a home treatment for accidental poisonings. Although experts have changed their recommendations about keeping ipecac on hand, there is one recommendation they did not change – call the poison control center when anyone comes in contact with a poison. Now there is only one number to call nationwide, 1-800-222-1222. Call this number and you will be connected to the nearest poison control center.

The Oklahoma Poison Control Center (OPCC) rarely uses ipecac in the home, but there are certain circumstances where the use of ipecac or activated charcoal in the home can be beneficial. Families living in more rural area where a trip to a health care facility may take longer than 30 minutes should still stock ipecac for emergency use. Remember to ALWAYS CALL your physician or the poison control center first BEFORE giving anything to someone that has ingested a poison.

The OPCC stress the following poison prevention tips:

• Keep potential poisons locked out of sight and out of reach of children. A tool or tackle box is inexpensive and easy to lock up.
• Never transfer a substance from its original container. There are too many poisons that look like a child’s favorite fruit juice.
• Safely dispose of all unused and no longer needed medications.
• Post the poison control center number near the phone: 1-800-222-1222.
• Call the poison center in the case of a suspected poisoning exposure.
• Call 911 in the case of convulsions, unconsciousness, or if someone has stopped breathing.