Ethylene Glycol Intoxication

Alternate Names : Ethylene Glycol Poisoning

What are the treatments for the condition?

Upon arrival at the emergency room, sodium bicarbonate may be given to correct the acidosis of the blood. The stomach may be pumped and cleaned if no more than 30 minutes have passed since swallowing. The medication fomepizole (an antidote) may be given through an intravenous line into the arm. Some drugs can help change some of the toxic byproducts in the body. Dialysis may be done in cases of severe poisoning and if heart or kidney failure is likely.

What are the side effects of the treatments?

The most common side effects associated with fomeprizole are dizziness, headache, and nausea. Sodium bicarbonate can cause stomach cramps, bloating, and excessive thirst.

What happens after treatment for the condition?

An individual can die from ethylene glycol poisoning. There can also be kidney failure and congestive heart failure that lingers after recovery.

How is the condition monitored?

A physician or healthcare provider can monitor ethylene glycol levels and kidney function in individuals who have been poisoned with ethylene glycol.