Iron (Fe+)
One of the most common and severe poisonings in children.
S/S: GI corrosion and hemorrhage to hepatic failure.
DX: Iron tablets may be visible on abdominal radiographs.
TX: Activated charcoal does NOT bind with iron, so treat with the chelating agent Deferoxamine intravenously along with fluid resuscitation
Side effect: Deferoxamine-iron is excreted in urine, producing a characteristic pink-red color urine.
Treatment is effective when symptoms resolve, and serum iron levels return to normal.
Additional Resources