What happens when a 15-month-old child eats diaper rash cream accidentally?

Question

Hello doctor,

My 15-month-old child ate diaper rash cream accidentally. I do not know the quantity. Immediately after that, I made him drink water. What should I do?

Kindly help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and understand your concern.

A diaper rash cream contains zinc oxide. A small amount of diaper rash cream taken orally may not cause any problems. The signs and symptoms of zinc oxide overdose can vary from one individual to another. It may be mild in some and severe in others. The signs and symptoms may include irritation of the mouth and throat, coughing, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fever and chills, stomach or abdominal pain, and yellowing of the eyes and skin (jaundice). If skin or eye exposure occurs, it may result in a burning sensation, inflammation, and pain. You must observe your child for all these signs and symptoms. Wash skin and eyes repeatedly and thoroughly (irrigation) to eliminate any remaining hazardous compounds. In case of any indication of complication, immediately visit a pediatrician or medical center for clinical evaluation and management. The emergency medical health professional might perform the following steps towards treating the complicated condition.

1. Administer activated charcoal to avoid drug absorption in the body.

2. Administer laxatives for the elimination of drugs from the body.

3. Administer fluids by an intravenous drip line.

Thank you.