Lanolin poisoning

Definition

Lanolin is an oily substance taken from sheep's wool. Lanolin poisoning occurs when someone swallows products that contain this substance.

Alternative Names

Poisonous Ingredient

• Lanolin

Where Found

Lanolin may be found in some of the following items:

• Baby oil
• Eye care products
• Diaper rash products
• Hemorrhoid medications
• Lotions and skin creams
• Medicated shampoos
• Makeup (lipstick, powder, foundation)
• Makeup removers
• Shaving creams

Note: This list may not include all sources of lanolin.

Symptoms

• Diarrhea
• Rash
• Swelling and redness of skin
• Vomiting

Home Care

Seek immediate medical help. DO NOT make a person throw up unless told to do so by Poison Control or a health care professional.

Before Calling Emergency

Determine the following information:

• Patient's age, weight and condition
• Name of product (ingredients and strengths, if known)
• Time it was swallowed
• Amount swallowed

Poison Control

The National Poison Control Center (1-800-222-1222) can be called from 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.

See: Poison control center - emergency number

What to Expect at the Emergency Room

The health care provider will measure and monitor your vital signs, including temperature, pulse, breathing rate, and blood pressure. Symptoms will be treated as appropriate. You may receive:

• Laxative

Outlook (Prognosis)

How well you do depends on the amount of poison swallowed and how quickly treatment is received. The faster you get medical help, the better the chance for recovery.

Medical-grade lanolin is relatively non-poisonous. Non-medical grade lanolin can sometimes cause a minor rash on your skin. Because it is similar to wax, eating large amounts of lanolin can cause a blockage in your intestines. Recovery is very likely.

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