Lily-of-the-valley

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 plant
• 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. Bring the plant 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
• administer activated charcoal
• monitor vital signs ( blood pressure, pulse, and so forth)
• monitor EKG (monitors heart function)
• blood samples drawn to determine:
  • serum magnesium levels
  • serum potassium levels

• administration of antidote and other medication to correct problems resulting from the overdose if needed
• correction of electrolyte (potassium, magnesium) imbalances

Expectations (prognosis):

The prognosis (probable outcome)
If the individual survives the first 24 hours their chances of survival are very good.