Magnesium

Alternative names

Calcium carbonate; Calcium carbonate with magnesium antacid overdose; Rolaids

Definition

This poisoning is from an overdose of calcium carbonate with magnesium in one of its various forms.

Poisonous Ingredient

Calcium carbonate and magnesium.

Where Found

• Rolaids antacid
  
• Rolaids Calcium Rich
  
• Rolaids Sodium Free
  

Note: This list may not be all inclusive.

Symptoms

• Body as a whole
  o Dry mouth
  o Bone pain (from chronic over-use)
  
• Respiratory
  o Shallow, rapid breathing
  
• Cardiovascular
  o Electrical disturbances (arrhythmias) in the heart
  
• Gastrointestinal
  o Diarrhea
  o Constipation
  
• Nervous system
  o Stupor (being too sleepy)
  o Poor balance
  

Home Treatment

If you believe someone has had a toxic exposure to Rolaids, seek medical care immediately. Do not induce vomiting, and call Poison Control. See Poison Control centers for telephone numbers and addresses.

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. Bring the package with you to the emergency room.

What to expect at the emergency room

For swallowed poison:

• 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)
  
• Activated charcoal administration
  
• Endoscopy - the placement of a camera down the throat to see the extent of burns to the esophagus and the stomach