Syrup of Ipecac… 15 ml Versus 30 ml in Pediatric Poisonings

Abstract

A prospective study was conducted to determine whether 30 ml of syrup of ipecac would produce a more rapid emesis than 15 ml in pediatric poisoned victims over twelve months of age. Data from 100 patients, where 15 ml of syrup of ipecac was administered, revealed an average time for emesis to occur of 25.82 minutes. Data from an additional 100 patients in which 30 ml of ipecac syrup was administered shows emesis to occur in 15.76 minutes. Clinically, six patients had repeated episodes of vomiting with 30 ml of ipecac; however, all were completely asymptomatic 60 minutes after ipecac administration. The difference of 10.06 minutes is statistically significant. Another aspect of the study evaluated whether the administration of clear liquids prior to or following ipecac substantially effected the onset of emesis. No differences were noted.