Capsaicin: When the "Chili" Is Too Hot

Capsaicin, the active ingredient in hot peppers, can be intensely irritating on the skin, in the eyes, to the stomach and gastrointestinal tract, and if inhaled.

Use Pest Strips As Directed!

Pest strips are typically made out of either glue on a paper backing or a porous strip impregnated with an organophosphate insecticide. Glue may stick to the skin or get in the eyes, but is unlikely to result in significant toxicity. However, exposure to organophosphates can be very toxic, causing muscle weakness, vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, and coma.

Virginia Creeper and Wisteria Toxicity

Although they are pretty, Virginia creeper and wisteria can be harmful if they are chewed or swallowed. Both plants can cause mouth pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea and should not be eaten.

Taste Changes Don't Stop Poisonings

Antifreeze is a sweet-tasting poison. Studies show that adding a bittering agent to antifreeze does not decrease poisonings or suicides with antifreeze.

What is Zinc Good For?

Zinc is a natural mineral found in food. It has recently gained popularity as an immune supplement for Covid-19 but has also been explored as a preventative or therapeutic option for acne and colds. Zinc is generally safe and can typically be taken while pregnant or breastfeeding, but it can be toxic in high amounts. In addition, zinc may interact with some medications.

Ecstasy Summary of Harmful Effects

Ecstasy, an illegal drug of abuse, is a stimulant related to amphetamine. An ecstasy overdose can cause high blood pressure, a rapid heart rate, seizures, dehydration, a dangerously high body temperature, and death. An ecstasy user who develops medical distress should be seen promptly in an emergency room.

Can Sunscreen Cause A Sunburn?

We use sunscreens to protect our skin from the sun's harmful rays. In some cases though, the use of sunscreen can result in allergic reactions or photoallergic dermatitis. Fortunately, in most cases, the rash is self-limiting and can be prevented in the future by avoiding use of certain sunscreen products.

What’s in Drain Cleaner, and What Happens if You Drink It?

Liquid drain cleaners contain potentially poisonous acidic or basic compounds, enzymes, and bacteria that are effective in clearing clogged drains. Since many drain cleaners contain highly concentrated corrosive chemicals, they must be used with great caution. Consumption of non-enzymatic drain cleaners can result in serious burns, permanent tissue damage, and even death.

Marijuana: Risks and Effects

Marijuana is the most common illicit drug in the US. A few states have decriminalized small amounts of the drug. Some permit medical uses. Marijuana is usually smoked. Effects include altered mood, impaired coordination, and impaired judgment. More severe effects sometimes occur. There is no antidote; treatment is supportive. The drug is sometimes addictive.

St. John's Wort

St. John's wort has been used for centuries and is generally regarded as safe when taken alone and in recommended doses. However, it is well known to have several drug interactions that can result in serious adverse effects or other problems with medications you might already be taking. Consult your physician and pharmacist before starting herbal products or dietary supplements.

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