IPECAC

The Uses of IPECAC

Medicine (emetic), production of emetine.

Indications

Ipecac syrup is prepared from the dried rhizome and roots of Cephaelis ipecacuanha or Cephaelis acuminata, plants from Brazil and Central America that have the alkaloid emetine as their active principal ingredient. It acts directly on the CTZ and also indirectly by irritating the gastric mucosa.

Hazard

Contains emetine, a toxic alkaloid.

Mechanism of action

Ipecac is cardiotoxic if absorbed and can cause cardiac conduction disturbances, atrial fibrillation, or fatal myocarditis. If emesis does not occur, gastric lavage using a nasogastric tube must be performed.

Veterinary Drugs and Treatments

Ipecac can be used to induce vomiting in dogs and cats after ingestions of certain toxic compounds or drugs in overdose quantities.