Is Syrup of Ipecac Still for Sale? Comparison of Pharmacies in a Large Urban Area—2003 Versus 2005

Abstract

There has been considerable publicity about the lack of benefit and potential dangers of syrup of ipecac. In November 2003, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommended against its use. Pharmacies in Houston, Texas were surveyed by telephone before (survey 1) and after (survey 2) the American Academy of Pediatrics' recommendation to determine whether ipecac availability changed. There were 126 pharmacies interviewed at survey 1, and 128 interviewed at survey 2. Pharmacies in survey 1 were more likely than those in survey 2 to sell ipecac (79% versus 64%, P < .01) and to have it in stock (75% versus 48%, P < .001). Pharmacies mostly stored ipecac on the shelves (67%, survey 1; 59%, survey 2, P = .27). Although syrup of ipecac availability has declined significantly, it is still available in more than 50% of pharmacies. Health care providers should advise against its use and advocate that pharmacies remove it.