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Depilatory poisoning - Overview

Alternative Names

Hair removal agents poisoning

Definition of Depilatory poisoning:

Depilatory is a product used to remove unwanted hair. Depilatory poisoning occurs when someone swallows this substance.

This is for information only and not for use in the treatment or management of an actual poison exposure. If you have an exposure, you should call your local emergency number (such as 911) or the National Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222.

Poisonous Ingredient:

Sodium or calcium hydroxide (alkalis), which are quite toxic
Barium sulfide
Thioglycollates

Note: This list may not include all poisonous ingredients.

Where Found:

Various depilatories

Reviewed last on: 1/26/2010
Jacob L. Heller, MD, MHA, Emergency Medicine, Virginia Mason Medical Center, Seattle, Washington. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

References

Caraccio TR, McFee RB. Cosmetics and toilet articles. In: Shannon MW, Borron SW, Burns MJ, eds. Haddad and Winchester's Clinical Management of Poisoning and Drug Overdose. 4th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2007:chap 100.

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