Baking powder overdose
Key points
- Poisonous Ingredient Sodium bicarbonate is the main ingredient of baking powder, which is generally considered to be non-toxic.
- Poison Control, or a local emergency number They will instruct you if it is necessary to take the patient to the hospital.
- While most ingestions of baking powder are considered non-toxic, serious complications from overdoses or allergic reactions may occur.
- See Poison Control Centers for telephone numbers and addresses.
Alternative names
Sodium bicarbonate
Definition
Poisoning from an overdose of baking powder.
Poisonous Ingredient
Sodium bicarbonate is the main ingredient of baking powder, which is generally considered to be non-toxic.
Where Found
- Baking powder
Note: This list may not be all inclusive.
Symptoms
- Thirst
- Abdominal pain
- Nausea and/or vomiting (severe)
- Diarrhea (severe)
Home Treatment
Do NOT induce vomiting. Dilute with milk or water.
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
- Treat the symptoms.
Expectations (prognosis)
While most ingestions of baking powder are considered non-toxic, serious complications from overdoses or allergic reactions may occur.
Written and revised by
Gerald Hurowitz, M.D.
Our doctors write and review articles for accuracy and keep them up to date.
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