Alternative names 
Stoddard solvent; Varsol 1

Definition
Poisoning caused by an exposure to stoddard solvent.

Poisonous Ingredient

 
• petroleum distillates

Where Found

 
• stoddard solvent (mineral spirits)  
• some paints  
• some dry cleaning fluids  
• paint thinner  
• liquid photocopier toners

Note: This list is not necessarily all inclusive.

Symptoms

 
• body as a whole       o fever       o weakness       o convulsions       o numbness in arms and legs       o burning sensations       o headache       o memory problems  
• respiratory       o cough       o fast and shallow breathing  
• skin       o burns with prolonged contact  
• gastrointestinal       o nausea       o vomiting       o weight loss  
• heart and blood vessels       o rapid heartbeat  
• nervous system       o unconsciousness       o nervousness       o dizziness

Home Treatment
DO NOT INDUCE VOMITING! Call Poison Control Center for appropriate treatment.

Before Calling Emergency
Determine the following information:

 
• the patient’s age, weight, and condition  
• name of product (as well as the ingredients and strength if known)  
• the time it was swallowed  
• the amount swallowed

Poison Control, or a local emergency number
They will instruct you if it is necessary to take the patient to the hospital. See Poison Control centers for telephone numbers and addresses. Bring the poison container with you to the emergency room.

What to expect at the emergency room
Some or all of the following procedures may be performed:

 
• Induce vomiting.  
• Administer activated charcoal.  
• Use gastric lavage.  
• Administer a cathartic (bowel evacuator).  
• Irrigate eyes and wash skin with soap and water if exposed.  
• Treat the symptoms.

Expectations (prognosis)
The amount of lung damage dictates the length of recovery time, if the patient survives the first 24 hours.

Medical Encyclopedia

All ArmMed Media material is provided for information only and is neither advice nor a substitute for proper medical care. Consult a qualified healthcare professional who understands your particular history for individual concerns.