Iron overdose is a common cause of poisoning in children under the age of six years old. Iron can be found in iron replacement tablets, prenatal vitamins, and some multivitamins.
Immediate symptoms of iron poison
ing include:
- nausea
- vomiting
- diarrhea
- abdominal pain
If left untreated, iron poisoning can cause:
- liver damage
- heart failure
- coma
- death
Keep these tips in mind:
- Children like the flavors and shapes of their vitamins. The vitamins may look and taste like candy, so if a child gets into a bottle, he or she may eat several.
- Store all vitamins and iron tablets out of your child's reach.
- Tell your child often that vitamins should only be given by a trusted adult.
- Remember, there is no such thing as a “child proof” cap. Child-resistant closures make it only slightly more difficult for the lid to be removed by a child.
- If you are unsure that a product contains iron, check the active ingredients section on the label. Iron will be listed if it is present in the product.
Your child’s pediatrician can tell you if your child needs a vitamin with iron.
Call NC Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or chat from this site for further treatment advice.
