Methanol overdose
Home treatment:
If the overdose is discovered within 2 hours after ingestion, unless the patient is unconscious or experiencing convulsions, the normal treatment is to induce emesis (vomiting). Before inducing emesis, contact Poison Control to verify that is the correct treatment.
If instructed to induce emesis, proceed as follows or as otherwise instructed:
Give the usual dose of ipecac syrup: 15 milliliters (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 person 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:
Expectations (prognosis):
Methanol is extremely toxic. As little as 2 TABLEspoonsful can be fatal to a child, and 2 to 8 oz. can be fatal for an adult. The ultimate outcome depends on how much was swallowed and how soon appropriate care was given.
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