Disease Injury Nutrition Poison
Special Topic Surgery Symptoms Test
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
Y
Z

Methyl salicylate overdose
Definition:
Poisoning from an overdose of methyl salicylate.
Alternative Names:
Deep heating rubs; oil of wintergreen
Poisonous Ingredient:
  • methyl salicylate
Where Found:
  • oil of wintergreen
  • some liniments
  • some solutions for vaporizers
Note: This list may not be all inclusive.
Symptoms:


Home Treatment:
Contact Poison Control for treatment guidance.
Before Calling Emergency:
Determine the following information:
  • the patient's age, weight, and condition
  • the name of the product (ingredients and strengths if known)
  • the time it was swallowed
  • the amount swallowed
Poison Control, or a local emergency number:
They will instruct you if it is necessary to take the person to the hospital. See Poison Control centers for telephone numbers and addresses. Take the container with you to the emergency room.
What to expect at the emergency room:
Some or all of the following procedures may be performed:
  • Induce emesis.
  • Administer activated charcoal.
  • Administer a laxative.
  • Take a blood sample (venipuncture) to determine the salicylate level in the blood.
  • Administer fluids (milk, fruit juices or, in severe cases, IV fluids).
  • Sponge water baths to control fever.
  • Give other medications as needed.
  • Treat complications as necessary.
Expectations (prognosis):
The blood level of salicylates determines the outcome. Recovery is likely if the acidic effect of the salicylate can be effectively neutralized. Methyl salicylate (oil of wintergreen) is the most toxic form of the salicylates. Doses of less than 1 teaspoonful have been lethal in small children.
Review Date: 1/7/2002
Reviewed By: Victoria Kennedy, RN, A.D.A.M. editorial.

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2002 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
adam.com