Toothpaste overdose Health Article

Definition

Toothpaste is a product used to clean teeth. This article discusses the effects of swallowing a lot of toothpaste.

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 fluoride
• Triclosan

Where Found

• Various toothpastes

Symptoms

Swallowing a large amount of regular toothpaste may cause stomach pain and possible intestinal blockage.

These additional symptoms may occur when swallowing a large amount of toothpaste containing fluoride:

• Convulsions
• Diarrhea
• Difficulty breathing
• Drooling
• Heart attack
• Salty or soapy taste in the mouth
• Slow heart rate
• Shock
• Tremors
• Vomiting
• Weakness

Home Treatment

Do NOT make a person throw up unless told to do so by poison control or a health care professional. Seek immediate medical help.

If the product was swallowed, immediately give the person water or milk, unless instructed otherwise by a health care provider. Do NOT give water or milk if the patient is having symptoms (such as vomiting, convulsions, or a decreased level of alertness) that make it hard to swallow.

Before Calling Emergency

Determine the following information:

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