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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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Plastic

Substances

Orally: Plastic is not toxic when ingested, but may cause suffocation if the swallowed pieces are large.​

Inhaled: In fires, the burning plastic produces highly toxic vapours.

Melted plastic: Polyethylene is one of the most common plastics. A typical thermoplastic, it is used in household items and packaging, for example. When polyethylene melts, it is not considered toxic.

Rat poison

Substances

In small children, ingesting even a small amount of rat poison is sufficient to cause symptoms. Contact the Poison Information Centre to confirm toxicity.​

Remo-Wax® ear drops

Substances

In small doses, ear drops accidentally administered orally are harmless and do not require special treatment.​ In the eye: Rinse with plenty of water for about 15 minutes. If symptoms (such as severe pain, swelling, sensitivity to light or tearing) develop during the next hours, take the patient to the doctor.

Salbutamol

Substances

Salbutamol 0.4mg/ml is harmless, when the dose is less than 20ml and does not require treatment. Typical side effects and symptoms of salbutamol poisoning include e.g. flushed skin, tremors and gastrointestinal symptoms. If the ingested amount is over 20ml, contact the Poison Information Centre to confirm toxicity.

Shoe care products

Substances

Shoe dyes and polishes may contain dangerous solvents. Shoe polishes contains petroleum products, but in solid form, they can be considered relatively harmless.​

Silica gel (desiccant)

Substances

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

Sleeping pills

Substances

An extremely hazardous group. Always contact the Poison Information Centre to confirm toxicity!​

Snus and nicotine pouch

Substances

Even a small amount may cause symptoms in a child. Contact the Poison Information Centre to confirm toxicity.​

Soap

Substances

Keywords: Shampoo, hand soap, shower gel

When accidentally ingested, the dose is typically small. No treatment is required. Rinse the mouth. Avoid copious drinking because of excessive foaming. 

Soda

Substances

Keywords: Corrosive substances, smelling salt

Baking soda (sodium bicarbonite). Does not require treatment when ingested in small amounts (one teaspoon).​ If the ingested amount is greater, contact the Poison Information Centre to confirm toxicity.​

Washing soda (sodium carbonite) is corrosive substance. It is used for example in paint removals and smelling salts.​

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