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If you or someone you know is exposed to a dangerous chemical, gas, venom, or medication, basic first aid for a poisoning may be the difference between injury or saving a life. Stay calm, react quickly, and take the appropriate first aid steps on how to treat a poisoning.

How to Treat a Poisoning

The correct treatment for poisoning depends on a person’s age, weight, and the type and amount of the substance they were exposed to that caused the poisoning. Do not attempt to treat a poison exposure yourself. Call the Poison Help Line (1-800-222-1222) for professional advice.

Signs & Symptoms of Poisoning

Each poison exposure is unique. Do not wait for signs of poisoning before calling the Poison Help Line (1-800-222-1222), which connects you to a specially trained nurse or pharmacist.

Stay calm. Not all medicines, chemicals, or household products are poisonous. Not all contact with poison results in poisoning. Make sure to have the container of the product you think caused the poisoning nearby. The label has important information.

Follow These Important First Aid Steps

1

Get Help Now

If the person is unconscious, having a seizure, or not breathing, call 911 right away.

2

Call for Poison Help

3

Be Prepared

Know the substance involved and how they were exposed to it. Have the individual’s name, age, weight, and symptoms ready.

Do You Know the Four Ways Poison Enters Your Body?

Take The Missouri Poison Center With You

Emergencies don’t wait for you, so you shouldn’t have to wait to call for help. Get the Missouri Poison Center app with poison information and a link to the Poison Help Line. It is just a click away during the most stressful moments. Our registered nurses and pharmacists are here 24/7/365 days a year to help guide you through poison exposures and overdose emergencies.

Don’t wait. Download now.

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