As previously stated, children account for the majority of unintentional toxicological exposures. There are several commonly prescribed medications that prove to be potentially fatal if ingested by a child under the age of 6 (or older)*. The following is a list of the medication classifications that EMS providers should be aware of regarding pediatric toxicity:
- Calcium Channel Blockers
- Tricyclic antidepressants
- Antimalarials
- Opiates
- Sulfonylureas
- Class I Antiarrhythmic
* There are many variables that determine a fatal dose, for example the child’s weight, amount ingested, duration of ingestion / exposure, treatments provided etc. [5]
