What is Syrup of Ipecac?
Why use ipecac?
Where do you get ipecac?
Who can give ipecac?
When can ipecac be used?
When should ipecac NOT be used?

What is Syrup of Ipecac?
Syrup of Ipecac is the most important item to have in your home when a poisoning occurs. It is the only safe and reliable method that can be used to produce vomiting in the case of a poisoning. Ipecac is a plant extract that causes vomiting when swallowed.

Why use ipecac?
Ipecac will produce vomiting when swallowed to remove the poison from the stomach.

Where do you get ipecac?
Ipecac can be purchased at your local pharmacy. It might be a good idea to keep one bottle for each young child in the home at all times -- children can tend to get into trouble together! Remember: an unopened bottle of Syrup of Ipecac is still safe and effective after 25 years.

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Who can give ipecac?
You can, when the Washington Poison Center recommends giving ipecac. You will be given directions on how to give it, based on the person's age and weight.

When can ipecac be used?
Never use ipecac to produce vomiting unless instructed to do so. Always seek the advice of the Washington Poison Center or a physician before giving ipecac. Do not follow emergency instructions on bottles. These instructions may be outdated or incorrect.

When should ipecac NOT be used?
Never try to cause vomiting if the patient:

• is unconscious or at risk of becoming drowsy or having seizures.
• has swallowed a strong corrosive such as drain opener, toilet bowl cleaner, or an acid.
• Vomiting is usually not advised for first aid if petroleum distillates (kerosene, gasoline, furniture polish, lighter fluid, etc.) are swallowed, primarily because petroleum distillates are not that toxic to the GI tract. Check with the Washington Poison Center or your physician first.

ALWAYS CALL THE WASHINGTON POISON CENTER OR
YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE GIVING IPECAC!
.

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