Bacitracin zinc overdose

Definition

This poisoning is due to an overdose of bacitracin zinc.

Poisonous Ingredient

• Bacitracin
• Zinc

Where Found

• Some prescription antibiotic eye drops, such as Neosporin Ophthalmic drops
• Some prescription antibiotic eye ointments, such as Neosporin Ophthalmic Ointment
• Some antibiotic sprays, such as Polysporin Spray
• Some antibiotic ointment, such as Neosporin and Polysporin

Note: This list may not be all inclusive.

Symptoms

• Body as a whole
  o Swelling of lips and face
  o Sweating
  o Tightness of chest
  
• Respiratory
  o Temporarily stop breathing
  
• Skin
  o Rash
  o Itching
  
• Heart and blood vessels
  o Low blood pressure
  o Heart stops
  
• Nervous system
  o Unconsciousness
  

Note: These reactions are more likely as a result of an allergic reaction rather than a true overdose situation.

Home Treatment

Discontinue the use of the antibiotic. Seek emergency medical care immediately. 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
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

• Treat the allergic reaction with diphenhydramine and prednisone.
• For swallowed poison o Placement of a tube down the nose and into the stomach (a nasogastric tube, or an NG tube) to wash out the stomach (gastric lavage). o Activated charcoal administration. o Endoscopy - the placement of a camera down the throat to see the extent of burns to the esophagus and the stomach. o Give IV fluids. o Admission to the hospital. o Give an antidote. o Treat the symptoms.