Ipecac

Category:

• Miscellaneous

Description:

• Emetic

Indications:

• In poisoning to induce vomiting

Contraindications:

• Unconsciousness, semi-consciousness, depressed gag reflex

• Poisoning with petroleum products or caustic substances, seizures

Precautions:

• Pregnancy category C; not known if excreted in breast milk

Adverse Reactions (Side Effects):

• CNS: coma, seizures

• CV: atrial fibrillation, dysrhythmias, fatal myocarditis, hypotension

• GI: bloody diarrhea, nausea, vomiting

Dosage:

Administered orally

• Adult:   PO 15-30ml, then 3-4 glasses water

• Child 1-12 years: PO 15ml, then 1-2 glasses water

• Child <1 year: PO 5-10ml, then ½ to 1 glass water, may repeat dose if needed