Aspirin overdose

Alternative names

Aspergum; Bufferin; Ecotrin; Empirin; Synalgos; ZORprin

Definition

This is poisoning from an overdose of aspirin.

Poisonous Ingredient

• aspirin
  

Where Found

• aspirin
  
• Ecotrin
  
• Anacin caplets and tablets
  
• Alka Seltzer
  
• Bufferin
  

Note: This list may not be all inclusive.

Symptoms

• body as a whole
  o hyperactivity
  o fever
  o convulsions
  o collapse
  
• heart and blood vessels
  o low blood pressure
  o rapid heart rate
  
• respiratory
  o rapid breathing
  o stop breathing
  o wheezing
  
• eyes, ears, nose, and throat
  o ringing in the ears
  o deafness
  
• gastrointestinal
  o nausea and vomiting
  o dry mouth
  o bleeding
  
• nervous system
  o dizziness
  o hallucinations
  o drowsiness
  

Home Treatment
Contact Poison Control to get appropriate treatment information.

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:

• Use gastric lavage.