Deep heating rubs

Alternative names

Methyl salicylate overdose; Oil of wintergreen

Definition

Poisoning from an overdose of methyl salicylate.

Poisonous Ingredient

• methyl salicylate
  

Where Found

• oil of wintergreen
  
• some liniments
  
• some solutions for vaporizers
  

Note: This list may not be all inclusive.

Symptoms

• body as a whole
  o agitation
  o fever
  o convulsions
  o collapse
  
• respiratory
  o difficulty breathing
  o rapid breathing
  o no breathing
  
• eyes, ears, nose, and throat
  o ringing in the ears
  
• gastrointestinal
  o nausea, vomiting
  
• nervous system
  o dizziness
  o hallucinations
  o drowsiness
  

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).