What is Ipecac?
-
Full name: Syrup of Ipecac
-
Made from: The root of the ipecacuanha plant (native to Brazil)
-
Use: It causes the stomach to contract, triggering vomiting — usually within 15–30 minutes.
-
Was used for: Emergency treatment after ingestion of poison or harmful substances.
-
No longer recommended: Medical experts no longer recommend ipecac for home use because:
-
Vomiting may not remove the toxin completely.
-
It can cause harm or delay more effective treatment (like activated charcoal or professional care).
-
-
Withdrawn from shelves: Most pharmacies stopped carrying it in the early 2000s.