Dangers of Ipecac

What is Syrup of Ipecac?
In its simplest form, Ipecac is an agent that induces vomiting. Ipecac is made from the dried root of a plant called Cephaelis ipecacuanha. Ipecac is intended to be used ONLY for accidental poisoning. You MUST contact your doctor or the Poison Control Center before and/or after ingesting Ipecac.

Ingredients:
Alcohol 1.8% by Volume, Glycerin, Powdered Ipecac, Sugar Sucrose, Purified WaterSymptoms of

Overdose:
(may also occur if ipecac is taken regularly)
· diarrhea
· fast or irregular heartbeat
· nausea or vomiting (continuing more than 30 minutes)
· stomach cramps or pain
· troubled breathing
· unusual tiredness
· weakness
· aching and/or stiffness of muscles (especially those of the neck, arms, and legs )

Abuse in people with Eating Disorders
· Weakness of muscles
· Shock
· Dehydration
· Respiratory Problems
· Cardiac Arrest and Heart Arrythmias
· Siezures
· Blackouts
· Hemmorhaging
· Death

The Dangers
Ipecac syrup is intended to be used in emergencies and should only be administered if someone has swallowed poison (please see warning below). Ipecac causes severe vomiting but can have many side-effects, both short-term and long-term. These side-effects include dizziness, nausea, stomach cramps, respiratory difficulties, fast or irregular heartbeat, seizures and pneumonia. If the ipecac is not vomited or an individual overdoses, it can cause serious heart problems and even death.

Please note: you should not use or administer ipecac without having first consulted the poison control center or your doctor. They will be able to tell you whether or not you should use Ipecac. With some poisons, vomiting can do more harm than good.