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Health Information Encyclopedia - Poison


Tetrahydrozoline

Definition:

Tetrahydrozoline is a derivative of imidazoline, which is found in over-the counter-eye drops and nasal sprays. Other derivatives include naphazoline, oxymetazoline, and xylometazoline. Poisoning can result from an overdose.



Alternative Names: Murine; Visine

Poisonous Ingredient:
  • Tetrahydrozoline


Where Found:
  • Tetrahydrozoline
  • Tyzine Pediatric Drops
  • Tyzine
  • Eyesine
  • Murine Tears Plus
  • Optigene 3
  • Geneye
  • Visine Original
  • Visine Advanced Relief

Note: This list may not be all-inclusive.



Symptoms:

Home Treatment:

DO NOT INDUCE VOMITING UNLESS INSTRUCTED TO DO SO BY POISON CONTROL OR BY A PHYSICIAN.



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


Poison Control, or a local emergency number:

They will instruct you if it is necessary to take the patient to the hospital. See Poison Control Centers for telephone numbers and addresses. Take the container with you to the emergency room.



What to expect at the emergency room:

Some or all of the following procedures may be performed:

  • Inducing vomiting
  • Administering activated charcoal
  • Administering a laxative
  • Gastric lavage
  • Administering artificial respiration if necessary
  • Maintaining adequate respiration rate
  • Treating the symptoms


Expectations (prognosis):

Survival past 24 hours is usually a good sign that recovery will follow.




Review Date: 6/3/2005
Reviewed By: Thomas A. Owens, M.D., Departments of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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