A comparison of ipecac syrup and apomorphine in the immediate treatment of ingestion of poisons

Abstract

The safety and effectiveness of apomorphine and ipecac syrup were compared on arandomized basis in the treatment of acute poisoning by ingestion in 86 children. Onset of vomiting was more rapid with apomorphine than with ipecac. Children in the apomorphine group vomited a greater number of times. There was significantly more central nervous system depression with apomorphine. Both drugs had similar failure rates. The time gained by the use of apomorphine is probably not clinically significant, and the central nervous system depression caused by the drug constitutes the major drawback to its routine use.