Meclofenamate overdose

Definition

This is poisoning from an overdose of Meclomen, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to treat arthritis.

Poisonous Ingredient

Meclofenamate

Where Found

• Meclomen
• Meclofen
• Movens

Symptoms

• Abdominal pain
• Agitation
• Bleeding in the stomach and intestinal areas
• Blurred vision
• Coma
• Confusion
• Diarrhea
• Dizziness
• Drowsiness
• Headache
• Nausea and vomiting
• Rash
• Ringing in the ears
• Seizures
• Wheezing

Before Calling Emergency

Determine the following information:

• Patient's age, weight, and condition
• Name of the product (ingredients and strengths, if known)
• Time it was swallowed
• Amount swallowed
• If the medication was prescribed for the patient

Poison Control, or a local emergency number

The National Poison Control Center (1-800-222-1222) can be called from anywhere in the United States. This national hotline number will let you talk to experts in poisoning. They will give you further instructions.

This is a free and confidential service. All local poison control centers in the U.S. use this national number. You should call if you have any questions about poisoning or poison prevention. It does NOT need to be an emergency. You can call for any reason, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Take the container with you to the emergency room.

What to expect at the emergency room

The health care provider will measure and monitor the patient's vital signs, including temperature, pulse, breathing rate, and blood pressure.

The patient may receive:

• Fluids
• Medicines to treat symptoms
• Medicines to make the person throw up
• Activated charcoal
• Laxative
• Diuretic
• A nasogastric (NG) tube thru the nose into the stomach to empty the stomach (gastric lavage)  
• Artificial respiration

Expectations (prognosis)

Recovery is very likely with prompt treatment.