The Side Effects of Syrup of Ipecac

Syrup of Ipecac is a vomit inducing medium. It has traditionally been used to counter the effects of accidental poisoning or drug overdose by inducing vomiting of the poison. While it is still common for parents of young children to keep a bottle of syrup of ipecac in the medicine chest, it has side effects that parents should understand.

Respiratory Issues

• Ipecac use can lead to lung and breathing problems. This includes aspiration pneumonitis, which results from aspirating the chemical in the process of administration and vomiting.

Acid Burn

• The most common side effect of syrup of ipecac is a burning of the mouth and throat. This can lead to problems speaking and eating after use.

Nervous System

• The use of syrup of ipecac can lead to an allergic reaction of a rash or neurological issues, such as drowsiness and lethargy. Chronic use of ipecac can lead to skeletal muscle toxicity.

Cardiovascular

• The use of ipecac can cause irregular palpitations in the heart as well as tachycardia. Chronic ingestion leads to toxic myopathy and possibly death.

Ineffectiveness

• Syrup of Ipecac has a strong acid base and will not work on poisons with corrosive properties such as toilet bowl cleaners or drain cleaners. Possible aids in this type of poisoning are vinegar or baking soda.