Treating Poisonings: Focus on Syrup of Ipecac: Syrup of ipecac is the most useful emetic agent in the home treatment of poisoning.

Abstract

The awareness of poison prevention is increasing despite an alarming incidence of accidental and intentional poisonings in the United States. During 1990, 72 poison centers throughout the United States, serving a population of 191.7 million, submitted to the American Association of Poison Control Centers data collection system 1,713,462 cases of poisonings, which included 612 deaths. Emetic agents, when used properly, can reduce the extent and severity of improperly ingested medications, selected household products, and other toxic chemicals. The pharmacist can play a valuable role in distributing information about poison control centers, poison prevention, and appropriate treatment of poisonings.