Propyl alcohol overdose

Definition:

Poisoning from an overdose of propyl alcohol.

Poisonous Ingredient:

isopropyl alcohol

Where Found:

rubbing alcohol
alcohol swabs

Note: This list may not be all inclusive.

Symptoms:

body as a whole
- unresponsive reflexes
- decreased urine output
- increased urine output
- incoordination
respiratory
- slowed and/or labored breathing
gastrointestinal
heart and blood vessels
- low blood pressure
nervous system
- dizziness
- deep stupor or state of unconsciousness unresponsive to treatment
- coma

Home Treatment:

Seek emergency medical care immediately. Call Poison Control. DO NOT INDUCE EMESIS (VOMITING) UNLESS INSTRUCTED TO DO SO BY Poison Control.

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:

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.

Administer activated charcoal.
Administer a laxative.
Administer an IV antidote.
Use gastric lavage.
Treat breathing difficulties.
Maintain blood pressure.
Use dialysis.
Treat the symptoms.

Expectations (prognosis):

Recovery depends on amount ingested, time to treatment, and kidney damage. Ingestion is potentially fatal.

Review Date: 2/11/2001
Reviewed By: Kevin G. Wheeler, M.D., Department of Emergency Medicine, Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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