National Poison Prevention Week 2014

More than 1.4 million children get into poisons every year. Preventing poisonings is most important. But, if children do get into a poison, call Poison Control right away. The 24-hour number is 1-800-222-1222.

Are Cleaning Wipes Safe?

During the past decade, the use of cleaning wipes has increased substantially. Cleaning wipes are available for a variety of surfaces. Since they are meant to be used with bare hands, they are mostly water and are not commonly associated with toxicity.

Don't Give Herbal Supplements to Infants

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children be fed only with breast milk or formula until at least four to six months of age. Children have developed seizures and infections from herbal teas and remedies, lead poisoning and mercury poisoning from traditional remedies, and liver damage from dietary supplements.

Dextromethorphan Abuse

Dextromethorphan is an over-the-counter cough suppressant found in more than 120 cough and cold products. Recreational abuse has become increasingly common and leads to approximately 6000 emergency room visits a year. Recreational users intentionally exceed recommended doses to experience heightened awareness, altered time perception, and visual hallucinations.

Hospitalization of Seniors from Medication

Every year, nearly 100,000 adults aged 65 and older are admitted to the hospital for drug side effects. In a recent study, the majority of problems were caused by "blood thinners" (warfarin and other oral anti-thrombosis drugs) and diabetes drugs (insulin and oral diabetes medicines).

What You Need to Know about Glucosamine

Glucosamine is a natural substance found in cartilage. In the US, it is sold as a dietary supplement and promoted to reduce osteoarthritis pain. It is generally safe and well-tolerated. However, strong scientific evidence showing that it actually works is lacking and dietary supplements are not regulated in the same vigorous manner as medications.

Benadryl: Side Effects, Interactions, and Overdose

Benadryl® (diphenhydramine) is an antihistamine used mostly to treat seasonal allergies. In overdose, diphenhydramine can cause excessive sleepiness, confusion, hallucinations, fast heartbeat, seizures, and coma. Take Benadryl as directed by a pharmacist or physician to avoid unwanted side effects.

Are Genital Desensitizers Safe To Use?

Genital desensitizers contain local anesthetics and are designed to numb the external genitalia to enhance sexual activities. When used in excess or too frequently, genital desensitizers can cause severe toxicity. Antidotes and medical treatments are available in hospital settings, but delays in seeking medical care can result in more severe symptoms or even death.

Grapefruit and Medicines: Can They Mix?

At least 85 drugs are known or thought to interact with grapefruit. Grapefruit products can cause those drugs to stay in your system much longer than usual. The effects are like a drug overdose. They can include dangerous heart rhythms, kidney damage, muscle damage, respiratory depression, and bleeding from the stomach or intestines.

Press Release, Take Poison Prevention Seriously

March 2017 Press Release: Take Poison Prevention Week seriously!

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