title: Past, present, and future role of ipecac syrup.
abstract: Historically, ipecac syrup has played a principal role in the management of acute poisonings and overdoses. Presently, its role largely has been relegated to prompt decontamination of acute childhood poisonings for which emesis is not contraindicated. However, even this specific and limited role has undergone rigorous re-evaluation, and many toxicologists have discouraged against its use in any circumstance. This article reviews the history, scientific literature, and public health implications of ipecac syrup that support its present clinical application.
authors.affiliation: Massachusetts Poison Control System, Children's Hospital, Boston 02115, USA.
authors.forename: L S
authors.initials: LS
authors.lastname: Quang
authors.forename: A D
authors.initials: AD
authors.lastname: Woolf
mesh_terms: D000082:Acetaminophen / Q000506:poisoning; D002606:Charcoal / Q000627:therapeutic use; D002648:Child; D000075202:Contraindications; D004639:Emetics / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D005751:Gastric Lavage; D006801:Humans; D007486:Ipecac / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D016032:Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic; D016896:Treatment Outcome
chemical_list: D004639:Emetics; D002606:Charcoal; D000082:Acetaminophen; D007486:Ipecac