Medical Health Encyclopedia

Dieffenbachia poisoning


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Alternative Names

Dumbcane poisoning; Leopard lily poisoning; Tuft root poisoning


Home Treatment

Wipe out the mouth with a cold, wet cloth. Give milk to drink. Call poison control for further guidance.


Before Calling Emergency

Determine the following information:

  • The patient's age, weight, and condition
  • The parts of the plant that were eaten
  • The time 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 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.

Take the plant with you to the hospital, if possible.

See: Poison control center - emergency number


What to expect at the emergency room

The health care provider will measure and monitor the patient's vital signs, including temperature, pulse, breathing rate, and blood pressure. Symptoms will be treated as appropriate. The patient may receive breathing support and fluids through a vein (IV).


Expectations (prognosis)

In rare cases, these plants may cause swelling severe enough to block the airways.



Review Date: 10/05/2009
Reviewed By: Jacob L. Heller, MD, MHA, Emergency Medicine, Virginia Mason Medical Center, Seattle, Washington. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org).

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