Chlorophyll

Definition:

This is poisoning caused by swallowing a large amount of chlorophyll,�the chemical that makes plants green.�

Poisonous Ingredient:

Chlorophyll

Where Found:

Green plants
Some cosmetics
Plant foods

Note: This list may not be all inclusive.

Symptoms:

Chlorophyll is considered non-poisonous. Most people who swallow chlorophyll�have no symptoms. In rare cases, the following symptoms may be seen:

Diarrhea
Stomach Cramps
Loose stools (bowel movements)

Before Calling Emergency:

Determine the following information:

The patient's age, weight, and condition
The name of the product (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 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 poison or plant with you to the hospital, if possible.

See National Poison Control center.

What to expect at the emergency room:

The health care provider will measure the patient's temperature, pulse, breathing rate, and blood pressure. The patient may receive medicines to treat symptoms.

Note: The patient may not need to be seen in the emergency room.

Expectations (prognosis):

Recovery is very likely because chlorophyll is relatively nontoxic.

Review Date: 5/8/2006
Reviewed By: Janeen R. Azare, PhD, MSPH, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2002 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.