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Bacitracin zinc overdose

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Alternative Names   

Cortisporin ointment overdose; Baciferm overdose

Definition    Return to top

This poisoning is due to an overdose of bacitracin zinc.

Poisonous Ingredient    Return to top

Where Found    Return to top

These ingredients are found in many different products, including some: 

Bacitracin zinc may also be added to animal food.

Note: This list may not be all inclusive.

Symptoms    Return to top

Symptoms are more likely a result of an allergic reaction to the ingredients, rather than a true overdose. They may include:

Home Care    Return to top

Stop using the product. Seek immediate emergency medical care.

If the chemical is on the skin or in the eyes, flush with lots of water for at least 15 minutes.

If the chemical was swallowed, immediately give the person water. DO NOT give water if the patient is vomiting or has a decreased level of alertness.

Before Calling Emergency    Return to top

Determine the following information:

Poison Control    Return to top

The National Poison Control Center (1-800-222-1222) can be called from anywhere in the United States. This national hotline number will let you talk to experts in poisoning. They will give you further instructions.

This is a free and confidential service. All local poison control centers in the U.S. use this national number. You should call if you have any questions about poisoning or poison prevention. It does NOT need to be an emergency. You can call for any reason, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Take the container with you to the hospital, if possible.

See National Poison Control center.

What to Expect at the Emergency Room    Return to top

The health care provider will measure and monitor the patient's vital signs, including temperature, pulse, breathing rate, and blood pressure.

The patient may receive:

Outlook (Prognosis)    Return to top

How well a person does depends on whether the allergic reaction can be controlled. If a person survives longer than 24 hours, they will probably recover.

Update Date: 4/4/2006

Updated by: Janeen R. Azare, PhD, MSPH, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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