Mineral oil overdose

Definition:
Poisoning from an overdose of mineral oil.

Poisonous Ingredient:
mineral oil
Where Found:
  • mineral oil
  • some antacids
  • some eye care products
  • some laxatives
  • some diaper rash medications
  • some hemorrhoid medications
Note: This list may not be all inclusive.
Symptoms:
Home Treatment:
DO NOT INDUCE EMESIS (VOMITING)! Call Poison Control for guidance.
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:
  • Observe the patient.
  • Administer fluids.
  • Activated charcoal
  • Treat the symptoms.
Expectations (prognosis):
Mineral oil is considered basically nontoxic, and recovery will likely occur.

Review Date: 1/11/2002
Reviewed By: Victoria Kennedy, RN, A.D.A.M. editorial.
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