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Definition

This article discusses poisoning from copper.

This is for information only and not for use in the treatment or management of an actual poison exposure. If you have an exposure, you should call your local emergency number (such as 911) or the National Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222.

Poisonous Ingredient

Copper

Where Found
  • Certain insecticides and fungicides
  • Copper wire
  • Some aquarium products
  • Vitamin and mineral supplements (copper is an essential micronutrient, but too much can be deadly)

Note: This list may not be all inclusive.

Symptoms

Swallowing large amounts of copper may cause vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and yellow skin (jaundice). Touching large amounts of copper can result in hair discoloration (green).

Symptoms may include:

Home Treatment

Seek immediate medical help. DO NOT make a person throw up unless told to do so by Poison Control or a health care professional.

Before Calling Emergency

Determine the following information:

  • The patient's age, weight, and condition
  • The name of the product (and ingredients and strengths, if known)
  • The time it was swallowed
  • The amount swallowed
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 United States 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.

See: Poison control center - emergency number

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. Symptoms will be treated as appropriate. The patient may receive:

  • Activated charcoal
  • A nasogastric (NG) tube thru the nose into the stomach to empty the stomach (gastric lavage)
  • Dialysis
  • Medicine (dimercaprol or penicillamine) to reverse the effect of the poison
Expectations (prognosis)

Sudden (acute) copper poisoning is rarely seen. However, serious long-term health problems, including liver failure and death, can occur with significant poisonings.

If toxicity is due to long-time accumulation, the ultimate outcome depends how much damage there is to body organs.

References

Jones AL, Dargan PI. Hepatic toxicology. In: Shannon MW, Borron SW, Burns MJ, eds. Haddad and Winchester's Clinical Management of Poisoning and Drug Overdose. 4th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2007:chap 11.

Hall AH, Shannon MW. Other heavy metals. In: Shannon MW, Borron SW, Burns MJ, eds. Haddad and Winchester's Clinical Management of Poisoning and Drug Overdose. 4th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2007:chap 75.

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Can you get copper poisoned by handling copper?

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How can I convert a copper penny to silver?

You can't physically change the metal content of a penny from copper to silver. Trying to coat a penny with silver may be considered illegal as it alters the appearance and value of the coin. If you're looking to own a silver coin, consider purchasing a silver coin from a reputable source.


What happen when you mix copper with copper nitrate?

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Related Questions

Can you get copper poisoning from wearing jewelry?

Yes, it is possible to get copper poisoning from wearing jewelry that contains high levels of copper, especially if the jewelry is worn frequently and for long periods of time. Symptoms of copper poisoning can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and in severe cases, liver damage. It is important to be cautious when wearing copper jewelry and to limit exposure to prevent potential health risks.


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Can a girl become pregnant by sucking pennies?

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Why it is not advisable to store fruits or curd in copper vessels?

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Can you get copper poisoned by handling copper?

Common Sense is the best guide. If you are handling small amounts of copper you should be safe. If you are employed to handle medium or large amounts of copper, lets says more than you wieght, then Work should have personal protective equipment that should worn


What is the effect of excess copper in drinking water for dogs?

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Which pollutes the water more lead copper or zinc?

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Copper contain copper !!


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