Hair Tonic

This poisoning is from swallowing hair tonic.

Poisonous Ingredient

Ethanol (ethyl alcohol)

Where Found

• Various hair tonics

Symptoms

• Coma
• Diarrhea
• Easily upset
• Increased urination
• Painful urination
• Slowed respirations
• Slurred speech
• Stupor (lack of alertness)
• Unsteady walk
• Unable to walk in a normal manner
• Vomiting

Home Treatment

DO NOT make a person throw up. Seek immediate medical help.

If the chemical was swallowed, immediately give the person water or milk, unless instructed otherwise by a health care provider. DO NOT give water or milk if the patient is having symptoms (such as vomiting, convulsions, or a decreased level of alertness) which make it hard to swallow.

If the chemical is in the eyes, flush with lots of water for at least 15 minutes.

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