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Position paper update: ipecac syrup for gastrointestinal decontamination
J Höjer1, W G Troutman, K Hoppu
1European Association of Poison Centres and Clinical Toxicologists. jonas.hojer@gic.se
Clinical Toxicology (Philadelphia, Pa.)
|February 15, 2013
Summary
Ipecac syrup is not recommended for routine use in poisoning cases due to lack of evidence and potential to interfere with other treatments. Its availability is also decreasing.
Area of Science:
- Clinical Toxicology
- Poison Control
Background:
- An update to the 1997 position paper on ipecac syrup was published in 2004.
- This paper aims to summarize the 2004 position paper and present new data.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the current evidence regarding the efficacy of ipecac syrup in managing poisoned patients.
- To provide updated recommendations on the use of ipecac syrup in clinical toxicology.
Main Methods:
- A systematic literature review was conducted for studies published from 2003 onwards.
- The review focused on clinical studies assessing the outcomes of ipecac syrup administration.
Main Results:
- A limited number of relevant articles were identified.
- No convincing clinical evidence supports ipecac syrup improving outcomes for poisoned patients.
- The availability of ipecac syrup is declining.
Conclusions:
- Routine administration of ipecac syrup should be avoided.
- Ipecac syrup may hinder the effectiveness of activated charcoal and other decontamination methods.
- Insufficient evidence exists to support or refute its use in rare, specific poisoning situations.
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