Mineral oil overdose

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Definition
Poisoning from an overdose of mineral oil.

Poisonous Ingredient
mineral oil

Where Found

• mineral oil
  
• some antacids
  
• some eye care products
  
• some laxatives
  
• some diaper rash medications
  
• some hemorrhoid medications

Note: This list may not be all inclusive.

Symptoms

• mild laxative action
  
• dehydration if diarrhea is severe
  
• Nausea and Vomiting

Home Treatment
DO NOT INDUCE EMESIS (Vomiting)! Call Poison Control for 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 patient 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:

• Observe the patient.
  
• Administer fluids.
  
• Activated charcoal
  
• Treat the symptoms.

Expectations (prognosis)
Mineral oil is considered basically nontoxic, and recovery will likely occur.

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