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Methyl salicylate overdose

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Contents of this page:

Alternative names   

Deep heating rubs; Oil of wintergreen

Definition    Return to top

Poisoning from an overdose of methyl salicylate.

Poisonous Ingredient    Return to top

Where Found    Return to top

Note: This list may not be all inclusive.

Symptoms    Return to top

Home Treatment    Return to top

Contact Poison Control for treatment guidance.

Before Calling Emergency    Return to top

Determine the following information:

Poison Control, or a local emergency number    Return to top

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    Return to top

Some or all of the following procedures may be performed:

Expectations (prognosis)    Return to top

The blood level of salicylates determines the outcome. Recovery is likely if the acidic effect of the salicylate can be effectively neutralized. Methyl salicylate (oil of wintergreen) is the most toxic form of the salicylates. Doses of less than 1 teaspoonful have been lethal in small children.

Update Date: 2/12/2004

Updated by: Cherlin Johnson, M.D., Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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