March 2024 Poison Post

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What is Fentanyl?

Fentanyl is a powerful opioid pain medication as well as a common contaminant found in illicit drugs. It can cause users to stop breathing, resulting in death. The antidote naloxone (Narcan) can reverse the effects of a fentanyl overdose if given in time.

Top Tips for a Safe Spring Cleaning

A clean home provides a healthy environment for your family, but household cleaning products can contain hazardous chemicals. It's important to be aware of the most common cleaner ingredients, what they are intended (and not intended) to do, and how to use them safely.

Is White Mulberry Poisonous?

White mulberry is a leafy tree that grows across the US. The leaves contain considerable amounts of fiber and protein, and white mulberry leaf extracts are used as a dietary supplement for management of blood sugar, weight, and other conditions. White mulberry is generally associated with few adverse effects in humans.

What Does it Mean to Have a Penicillin Allergy?

Up to 10% of people who take penicillin can have an allergic reaction. However, life-threatening reactions (anaphylaxis) are very rare. Most people with a penicillin allergy can safely take related medications, including cephalosporins.

The Hidden Danger of Foxtail Grass

The flowering stems of wild grasses have a unique shape that allows them to be easily inhaled by humans or animals if they handle wild grass, put it in their mouths, or play in areas where wild grass grows. Aspiration of wild grass can cause coughing, respiratory irritation, and lung disease, such as pneumonia, that can be very difficult to diagnose and treat.

Mustard and Mustard Oil Safety

Mustard is a popular condiment, but it can cause allergic reactions in some people. Mustard oil is often used for cooking, but only essential mustard oil is approved for use in foods by the FDA.