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Sassafras oil overdose
Definition:
Poisoning due to an ingestion of sassafras oil.

Poisonous Ingredient:
  • safrole
Where Found:
  • sassafras oil
Note: This list may not be all inclusive.
Symptoms:
Home Treatment:
Call Poison Control for appropriate treatment.
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:
  • Administer castor oil.
  • Use gastric lavage.
  • Induce emesis (must be done very carefully so the patient will not inhale any of the oil). This is best left to the medical personnel at an emergency room.
  • Give milk or mineral oil.
  • Give other fluids, with the amount being determined by kidney function.
  • Treat the symptoms.
Expectations (prognosis):
Sassafras oil is considered very toxic. Survival past 48 hours is usually a good sign that recovery will occur. If damage to the kidneys has occurred, it may take several months to heal.
Review Date: 1/11/2002
Reviewed By: Victoria Kennedy, RN, A.D.A.M. editorial.
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