Health Encyclopedia

Ink - writing

Definition

Writing ink poisoning occurs when someone swallows ink found in writing instruments (pens).

Alternative Names

Fountain pen ink

Poisonous Ingredient

Writing ink is a blend of:

Dyes
Pigments
Solvents
Water

It is generally considered nonpoisonous.

Where Found

Bottled ink
Pens

Symptoms

Eye irritation
Staining of skin and other mucus membranes

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.

Note: Large amounts of writing ink must be consumed (more than an ounce) before treatment is needed.

Before Calling Emergency

Determine the following information:

Patient's age, weight, and condition
Name of the product (ingredients and strengths, if known)
Time it was swallowed
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 your vital signs, including temperature, pulse, breathing rate, and blood pressure. Symptoms will be treated as appropriate. You may receive:

Washing of ink from the eyes or skin

Note: You may not need to be treated in a hospital.

Expectations (prognosis)

How well you do depends on the amount of poison swallowed and how quickly treatment is received. The faster you get medical help, the better the chance for recovery.

Because writing ink is generally considered nonpoisonous, recovery is very likely.

Review Date:2/27/2008
Reviewed By:Stephen C. Acosta, MD, Department of Emergency Medicine, Portland VA Medical Center, Portland, OR. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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