From the Guidelines
If you or someone has accidentally ingested Lysol, call Poison Control immediately at 1-800-222-1222 or seek emergency medical attention. The management of corrosive injuries, such as those caused by Lysol ingestion, requires prompt identification of the nature and quantity of the ingested agent, as well as the pattern of ingestion 1. It is crucial to contact Poison Control Centers to evaluate systemic toxicity of the ingested agents, as recommended by the World Journal of Emergency Surgery 1.
While waiting for help, do not induce vomiting unless specifically instructed by medical professionals, and do not drink anything unless directed by Poison Control. Lysol contains chemicals like benzalkonium chloride and ethanol that can cause serious damage to the digestive tract, respiratory system, and other organs. The severity of poisoning depends on the amount ingested, concentration of the product, and time elapsed since ingestion.
Medical treatment may include activated charcoal to absorb the toxin, although it should not be administered for ingestions of caustic substances, metals, or hydrocarbons 1. Gastric lavage may be considered in severe cases, along with IV fluids for hydration, medications to protect the stomach lining, and supportive care for symptoms. Prevention is crucial - always store cleaning products in original containers, out of reach of children, and never transfer them to food or beverage containers.
Key considerations in the management of Lysol ingestion include:
- Prompt identification of the ingested agent and quantity
- Contacting Poison Control Centers for evaluation of systemic toxicity
- Avoiding induction of vomiting unless instructed by medical professionals
- Providing supportive care, including hydration and protection of the stomach lining
- Considering gastric lavage in severe cases, but avoiding administration of activated charcoal for caustic substances.
From the Research
Treatment for Accidental Ingestion of Lysol
- Lysol is a product that contains quaternary ammonium compounds (QACs), which can be toxic if ingested 2, 3.
- The treatment for accidental ingestion of Lysol is not explicitly stated in the provided studies, but activated charcoal may be used to prevent toxicity or improve clinical outcome in cases of poisoning 4.
- However, the use of activated charcoal is not without risks, and vomiting is a common complication, especially in children 5.
- The risk factors for vomiting after therapeutic use of activated charcoal include previous vomiting and nasogastric tube administration 5.
- Quaternary ammonium compounds, such as those found in Lysol, can cause local irritation and toxicity, and may be poorly absorbed via the oral and dermal exposure routes 2.
- The environmental fate and toxicity of QACs are also a concern, as they can be released into wastewater treatment plants and dispersed into various environmental compartments 3.
Management of Poisoning
- The American Academy of Clinical Toxicology and the European Association of Poison Centres and Clinical Toxicologists have published joint position statements on the use of single-dose and multiple-dose activated charcoal in poisoning 4.
- The Clinical Toxicology Recommendations Collaborative has created a framework for evidence-based recommendations for the management of poisoned patients, including the use of activated charcoal 4.
- The management of poisoning should be individualized and based on the specific circumstances of the case, including the type and amount of substance ingested, the time of ingestion, and the patient's medical history and condition 4.