What Are the Dangers of Ipecac Syrup?

Ipecac syrup is an over the counter medication that used to be recommended by poison control centers as a way to treat accidental ingestion of poisons. However, the Food and Drug Administration no longer recommends automatically giving ipecac syrup to someone who has been poisoned, because the side effects of the syrup can be worse than those of the poison. According to the National Guidelines Clearinghouse and Drugs.com, the dangers of ipecac syrup include allergic reactions and overdose.

Dizziness

• Ipecac syrup may cause dizziness or drowsiness that may be sudden and severe, and can result in accidents if taken while driving.

Excessive Vomiting

• Ipecac syrup may make you vomit too much, which can lead to very low blood pressure and severe dehydration.

Allergic Reaction

• Some people may have an allergic reaction to ipecac syrup, which can include symptoms such as swelling of the tongue and mouth and inability to breathe.

Interactions

• If the poison swallowed was a petroleum product (gasoline, kerosene), acidic (sulfuric acid) or alkaline (lye), ipecac syrup can interact and increase the amount of bodily damage.

Fetal Effects

• If taken by a pregnant woman, ipecac syrup may cause harm to the unborn baby, and the medication may be passed to a baby through breast milk.

Overdose

• The proper dose of ipecac syrup is based on body weight, and giving too much medication can result in overdose, which may be life threatening.