Camphor overdose

Camphor is a white substance with a strong odor, commonly associated with Vicks VapoRub. Camphor overdose occurs when someone accidentally or intentionally takes more than the normal or recommended amount of this medication.

This is for information only and not for use in the treatment or management of an actual overdose. DO NOT use it to treat or manage an actual overdose. If you or someone you are with overdoses, call your local emergency number (such as 911), or your local poison center can be reached directly by calling the national toll-free Poison Help hotline (1-800-222-1222) from anywhere in the United States.

Poisonous Ingredient

• Camphor
• Menthol

Where Found

• Camphorated oil
• Some moth repellents
• Topical pain relievers
• Vicks VapoRub

Note: This list may not be all inclusive.

Symptoms

Symptoms may include:

• Abdominal pain
• Anxiety
• Burning of the mouth or the throat
• Convulsions

  Convulsions

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• Excessive thirst
• Excitation
• Hallucinations
• Muscle spasms
• Nausea and vomiting

  Nausea and vomiting

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• Rapid pulse
• Restlessness or agitation
• Rigid muscles
• Skin irritation
• Slow breathing

  Slow breathing

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• Somnolence (sleepiness)
• Thirst
• Tremors (unintentional trembling)
• Twitching facial muscles
• Unconsciousness

  Unconsciousness

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Home Care

Seek immediate medical help. DO NOT make a person throw up unless told to do so by Poison Control or a health care professional.

Before Calling Emergency

The following information is helpful for emergency assistance:

• The person's age, weight, and condition
• The name of the product (as well as the ingredients and strength if known)
• When it was swallowed
• The amount swallowed

However, DO NOT delay calling for help if this information is not immediately available.

Poison Control

Your local poison center can be reached directly by calling the national toll-free Poison Help hotline (1-800-222-1222) from anywhere in the United States. This 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 United States use this national number. You should call if you have any questions about poisoning or poison prevention. You can call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

What to Expect at the Emergency Room

The health care provider will measure and monitor the person's vital signs, including temperature, pulse, breathing rate, and blood pressure. Symptoms (such as seizures) will be treated as appropriate. The person may receive:

• Activated charcoal (used if other substances were taken along with the camphor, since activated charcoal does not adsorb camphor very well)
• Airway support, including oxygen, breathing tube through the mouth (intubation),and ventilator (breathing machine)
• Blood and urine tests
• Chest x-ray
• EKG (electrocardiogram, or heart tracing)
• Fluids through the vein (intravenous or IV)
• Laxative
• Medicines to treat symptoms

Outlook (Prognosis)

How well a person does depends on the amount of poison swallowed and how quickly treatment was received. The faster a person gets medical help, the better the chance for recovery.