Mistletoe

Definition:

Poisoning from eating the any part of the plant but especially the berries of the mistletoe plant.

Poisonous Ingredient:

toxic amines

Note: This list may not be all inclusive.

Where Found:

The toxin is found in all parts of the plant, but its highest concentration is in the leaves.

Note: This list may not be all inclusive.

Symptoms:

body as a whole
- weakness
eyes, ears, nose, and throat
- blurred vision
gastrointestinal
- vomiting or nausea
- abdominal pain (lower stomach)
- diarrhea
heart and blood vessels
- irregular heartbeat (or slow)
- low blood pressure
nervous system
- drowsiness
- confusion
- hallucinations
- disorientation
- convulsions

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)

Expectations (prognosis):

If the individual survives the first 24 hours their chances of survival are very good.

Review Date: 1/15/2002
Reviewed By: Victoria Kennedy, RN, A.D.A.M. editorial.

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