Definition

Poisoning from swallowing beeswax.

Poisonous Ingredient

Beeswax

Where Found

  • Beeswax

Symptoms

If swallowed in extremely large amounts, beeswax may cause intestinal blockage. However, it is  considered relatively non-poisonous.

Home Treatment

Call Poison Control for further guidance.

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 container with you to the hospital, if possible.

See National Poison Control center.

What to expect at the emergency room

  • Treat the symptoms.
Note: The patient may not need to be seen in the emergency room.
Review Date:5/16/2006
Reviewed By: Eric Perez, MD, Department of Emergency Medicine, St. Luke's-Roosevelt Hospital Center, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.