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Fluoride overdose

Definition

Poisoning from an overdose of fluoride.

Poisonous Ingredient

• fluoride

Where Found

• sodium fluoride tablets
• sodium fluoride liquid
• Tri and multivitamins with fluoride (Tri-Vi-Flor, Poly-Vi-Flor, Vi-Daylin F)
• fluoridated water
• some mouthwashes (ACT, Fluorigard)
• some toothpastes (Crest, Aqua Fresh, Colgate MFP)
• roach powders
• etching cream

Note: This list may not be all inclusive.

Symptoms

• body as a whole
  • excessive salivation
  • abnormal taste (salty or soapy taste)
  • tremors
  • weakness
  • convulsions
• respiratory
  • shallow respirations
• gastrointestinal
  • nausea
  • vomiting
  • diarrhea
  • abdominal pain
• nervous system
  • shock

Home Care

If you suspect possible poisoning, call 1-800-222-1222 anywhere in the United States. This national hotline number will let you talk to experts in poisoning. They will give you further instructions.

This is a free and confidential service. All local poison control centers in the U.S. use this national number. You should call if you have any questions about poisoning or poison prevention. It does NOT need to be an emergency. You can call for any reason, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Before Calling Emergency

Determine the following information:

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

If you are concerned about a fluoride overdose or poisoning, seek emergency medical care immediately at your nearest emergency room. See poison control centers for the national telephone number. Take the container or a sample with you to the emergency room.

What to Expect at the Emergency Room

Some or all of the following procedures may be performed:

• Induce vomiting.
• Use gastric lavage.
• Give milk or calcium in some form.
• Treat the symptoms.

Outlook (Prognosis)

Extent of illness and chance of recovery are dependent upon the dose and time to treatment. If the patient survives for 48 hours, recovery is likely.

Review Date: 10/31/2006
Reviewed By: Eric Perez, MD, Department of Emergency Medicine, St. Luke's-Roosevelt Hospital Center, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.