Syrup of Ipecac

What is syrup of ipecac?
Syrup of ipecac is an emetic made from the dried root of a plant called ipecacuanha, which is grown in Brazil. An emetic is an agent that causes vomiting.

Many physicians recommend that your keep syrup of ipecac on hand in case of emergencies, but it should be used only with guidance from a healthcare professional.

When to give syrup of ipecac:
In some cases vomiting may be dangerous, so never make a child vomit unless the pediatrician, poison control center, or other healthcare professional tells you to do so.

Strong acids (such as toilet bowl cleaner) or strong alkalis (such as lye, drain or oven cleaner, or dishwasher detergent) can burn the throat — and vomiting will only make the damage worse.

How to give syrup of ipecac:
Give syrup of ipecac in the amount recommended by the pediatrician or other healthcare professional. Encourage the child to drink a glass of water as well -- a distended or full stomach makes vomiting easier. Then:

• Place your child over your knees with his face down -- with his head lower than his hips.

• Catch the vomit in a large container to be saved for inspection. Keep it until your pediatrician or the poison center tells you to throw it away.