NORTH COAST EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES Policy # 5314

POLICIES AND PROCEDURES

Subject: Medical Direction

Syrup of Ipecac Protocol

Associated Policies: 01/10/98

  1. Class:
  1. Emetic.
  1. Indications:
  1. Acute (less than 20 minutes) oral poisoning or overdose in the alert patient.
  1. Therapeutic Effects:
  1. Induces vomiting by acting on cerebral emetic center and as a local gastric mucosal irritant.
  1. Contraindications:
  1. Absolute:
  1. Altered level of consciousness.
  2. Unknown ingestion.
  3. Infants less than 6 months of age.
  4. Ingestion of corrosives (strong acids or alkalis).
  5. Ingestion of petroleum derivatives
  6. Seizures disorders.
  7. Pregnancy.
  8. Absent gag reflex.
  1. Side Effects:
  1. Prolonged vomiting.
  2. Hypotension, rare.
  3. Dysrhythmias, rare.
  1. Administration and Dosage:
  1. Adult: 15-30 cc ( 1-2 Tablespoon) PO followed by 2-3 glasses of water.
  2. Pediatric:
  1. 6 months to 1 year of age, 5-10 cc (1-2 teaspoons) PO followed by water.
  2. Greater than 1 year, 15 cc ( 1 tablespoon ) PO followed by water.
  1. Special Information:
  1. Do not administer if ingestion is likely to cause CNS depression.