Ball-point pen inks

Home treatment:

The amount found in one pen is considered relatively nontoxic. Call Poison Control for further information.

If instructed to induce emesis, the standard procedure is as follows:

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 or pen with you to the emergency room.

What to expect at the emergency room:

• treat the symptoms

Note: The patient may not need to be seen in an emergency room.

Expectations (prognosis):

Since this product is considered relatively nontoxic, recovery is very likely.