Fluids are usually given intravenously to keep the poison victim well hydrated and to maintain urine production. Mild acids or bases may be added to these fluids to increase the amount of poison excreted into the urine. Chemicals that bind to certain poisons, particularly heavy metals such as lead, may be given intravenously to help neutralize and eliminate the poison. If a specific antidote is available, it's given as quickly as possible. Examples are antidigoxin antibodies for an overdose of digoxin and the drug naloxone for an overdose of morphine or heroin.
Poisoning often requires additional treatment, depending on the symptoms and the substance ingested.
A respirator may be needed if breathing stops, as may happen after an overdose of morphine, heroin, or barbiturates. The brain often swells after poisoning from sedatives, carbon monoxide, lead, or other chemicals that depress the nervous system. Drugs given to reduce the swelling include corticosteroids and mannitol. Poisoning can cause kidney failure, which may be severe enough to require dialysis. All rights reserved.