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Phenindamine overdose

Definition

Phenindamine is a type of medication called an antihistamine, which helps relieve allergy symptoms. Phenindamine overdose occurs when someone accidentally or intentionally takes more than the normal or recommended amount of this medication.

Alternative Names

Amilon; Fenaclor; Nolamine; Norphenamine; Prophamine

Poisonous Ingredient

Phenindamine

Where Found

• Amilon
• Fenaclor
• Nolahist
• Nolamine
• Norphenamine
• Prophamine

Note: This list may not be all inclusive.

Symptoms

• Eyes, ears, nose, and throat
  • Blurred vision
  • Dry mouth
  • Enlarged pupils
  • Ringing of the ears
• Heart and blood vessels
  • Rapid heartbeat
  • Convulsions
• Nervous system
  • Delirium
  • Depression
  • Disorientation
  • Drowsiness
  • Excitation
  • Hallucinations
  • Insomnia
  • Nervousness
  • Unsteadiness
  • Tremor
  • Seizures (possible)
• Other
  • Fever
  • Flushed skin
  • Weakness

Before Calling Emergency

Determine the following information:

• The patient's age, weight, and condition
• Name of product (as well as the ingredients and strength, if known)
• The time it was swallowed
• The amount swallowed
• If the medication was prescribed for the patient

Poison Control, or a local emergency number

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 United States 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.

Take the container with you to the hospital, if possible.

See: Poison control center - emergency number

What to expect at the emergency room

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

• Fluids by IV
• Activated charcoal
• Medicine (antidote) to reverse the effect of the poison
• Tube thru the mouth into the stomach to empty the stomach (gastric lavage)

Expectations (prognosis)

If the patient survives the first 24 hours, recovery is good. Few patients die from an antihistamine overdose.

Review Date:10/29/2007
Reviewed By:Eric Perez, MD, Department of Emergency Medicine, St. Luke's-Roosevelt Hospital Center, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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