Para-aminobenzoic acid overdose

Alternative names

PABA

Definition

This poisoning is from an overdose of para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA).

Poisonous Ingredient

Para-aminobenzoic acid

Where Found

• Some sunscreen products
  
• Other skin care products
  

Symptoms

Note: most toxic reactions to PABA are from allergic reactions, not overdoses.

• Respiratory
  o Slowed breathing (in extremely high doses)
  o Shortness of breath (more common in allergic reactions)
  
• Eyes, ears, nose, and throat
  o Eye irritation may occur after eye exposure
  
• Skin
  o Rash (allergic)
  
• Gastrointestinal
  o nausea and/or Vomiting
  
• Nervous system (all effects are with extremely high doses)
  o Dizziness
  o Stupor
  o Coma
  

Home Treatment
If you suspect that someone might be having an allergic reaction to PABA or may have been exposed to a toxic dose of PABA, call Poison Control and seek medical care immediately. Irrigate or wash any skin which may have been exposed to PABA. Flush eyes with large amounts of water for eye exposure. Do not induce Vomiting.

Before Calling Emergency

Determine the following information:

• The patient's age, weight, and condition
  
• Name of product (as well as the ingredients and strength, 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