Laxative overdose

Home treatment:

Do not induce emesis (vomiting) unless instructed to do so by Poison Control or by a physician.

If instructed to induce emesis, proceed as follows or as otherwise instructed:

Give the usual dose of ipecac syrup: 15 milliliters (ml) or 1 TABLEspoonful for children and 30 ml (2 TABLEspoonsful) for an adult. Follow with 1/2 glass or 4 ounces (oz.) of water for children or 8 to 12 oz. of water for adults. Repeat 1 more time in 1/2 hour if emesis has not occurred.

Before calling emergency:

Determine the following information:

• the patient's age, weight, and condition
• the name of the product (ingredients and strengths if known)
• the time it was swallowed
• the amount swallowed

Poison Control, or a local emergency number:

They will instruct you if it is necessary to take the patient to the hospital. See Poison Control centers for telephone numbers and addresses. Take the container with you to the emergency room.

What to expect at the emergency room:

Some or all of the following procedures may be performed:

• induce emesis (where appropriate)
• administer activated charcoal (where appropriate)
• monitor vital signs ( blood pressure, pulse, and so forth)
• monitor EKG (monitors heart function)
• blood samples drawn to determine serum electrolyte levels if necessary
• administer fluids and electrolytes through an IV

Expectations (prognosis):

The prognosis (probable outcome):
The ultimate outcome of the individual will depend on such factors as the laxative swallowed, how much was swallowed, and how long before appropriate treatment was rendered.

Serious symptoms are most likely in patients who repeatedly use large amounts of laxatives for weight loss purposes. One-time exposures are rarely serious.