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Substances, plants and mushrooms

The list contains the most frequently asked about and most common causes of poisoning in humans. You can search for items by typing in a search word. If you do not find the item you are looking for, you may call the Poison Information Center 0800 147 111 to check if it is poisonous.

Plant and mushroom species and genera are listed depending on whether all species of a genus are poisonous or only some. Unfortunately, the Poison Information Center is not able to identify plants and mushrooms over the phone. Identification should always take place on the spot.

In addition to books on mushroom identification, mushroom experts can help you identify mushrooms. Experts can be found via mycological societies and the Martha Organization, for example.

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Glow sticks

Substances

The liquid in the glow stick can cause stinging of the skin or eyes. If swallowed, the glow stick liquid typically causes temporary gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea. Rinsing the mouth/eyes/skin is enough.

Glue

Substances

Keywords: paper glue, glue stick

Water-soluble glues: Glue sticks and paper glues, are considered harmless as a single dose.

Adhesives (containing solvents): Adhesives that contain solvents may be toxic if inhaled or ingested in large amounts.

Epoxy adhesives: The curing agents used in epoxy adhesives may be corrosive. Contact the Poison Information Centre to confirm toxicity.​

Instant adhesives: see Cyanoacrylate adhesives. 

Glycerol

Substances

Keywords: glycerine

A gulp or two is not considered harmful, although gastrointestinal symptoms may occur. Does not require treatment.​

Glycols

Substances

Keywords: coolant, brake fluid, ethylene glycol, propylene glycol

Propylene glycol: A single dose ingested is considered harmless.

Ethylene glycol:​ Highly toxic. In case of possible ingestion, seek medical assistance without delay.

Hair styling products

Substances

Keywords: hair spray, styling mousse, detangling liquid

A single dose is considered harmless. Does not require treatment.​

Heartburn drugs

Substances

Keywords: Rennie ®, Antepsin ®, Balancid Novum ®, Gaviscon ®, Galieve Peppermint ®, antacids

A single dose of mentioned drugs is considered harmless. Does not require treatment.​

In case of other heartburn drug, contact the Poison Information Centre to confirm toxicity.

Helium

Substances

Keywords: balloon, foil balloon

Inhaled in small amounts, helium gas is not considered dangerous. In addition to a high-pitched voice, inhaling helium gas may cause symptoms such as headache and dizziness. These are caused by hypoxia resulting from the helium gas displacing oxygen.

Herbicide

Substances

Keywords: glyphosate

The content varies. Contact the Poison Information Centre to confirm toxicity.

Hydrocortisone

Substances

Keywords: Corticosteroids, Hydrocortison®

A single dose of cortisone tablets or cream is considered harmless. In large amounts, creams may cause gastrointestinal symptoms. Does not require treatment.​

Hydrogen peroxide

Substances

Toxicity of hydrogen peroxide depends on the amount and the concentration. The poisoning risk of 3% hydrogen peroxide, which is often used in cosmetics, is low. Contact the Poison Information Centre to confirm toxicity.

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