Jack Jill Cough Syrup

Jack Jill Cough Syrup is an emetic ( a substance that causes vomiting). Ipecac syrup is often used as first-aid to induce vomiting in certain cases of poisoning, though this practice is not proven beneficial in many cases and not recommended for many ingested poisons. 

Although widely used as expectorant and aid for cough, Ipecac syrup is not approved for these indications and may not work. 

Ipecac syrup is made from the roots of the plant Carapichea ipecacuanha. It works by irritating the lining of the stomach and stimulating the area of the brain responsible for vomiting.

Ipecac syrup is often available as an over-the-counter drug. In cases of poisoning, however, Ipecac syrup must be used very carefully. For poisoning, call local poison control hotlines or the doctor first and only use Ipecac syrup if health professionals tell you to do so.

Ipecac syrup must not be used to induce vomiting to regurgitate eaten food to reduce weight. 

Ipecac syrup can be harmful and can actually increase internal damage from certain poisons if not used properly. 

Before using Jack Jill Cough Syrup, you must know all about the risks and complications associated with it.

Do not use Ipecac syrup for the following poisons:

• Undetermined poisons
• Multiple poisons
• Lye 
• Alkaline poisons like batteries, drain cleaners, dishwashing liquids, detergents and hair relaxers
• Acid poisons like sulfuric acid, hydrochloric acid, oxalic acid and boric acid
• Kerosene
• Gasoline
• Coal oil
• Fuel oil
• Paint thinners or reducers
• Cleaning fluid

Do not use Ipecac syrup if you have an allergy to Ipecac syrup or if you have already been given activated charcoal. 

Always use extreme caution when giving Ipecac syrup to babies less than 12 months old. 

Only give Ipecac syrup to fully conscious individuals. Do not give Ipecac syrup to poisoned individuals who are unconscious, very drowsy or intoxicated, have rapidly deteriorating condition, or are having seizures.

Ipecac syrup is not appropriate for individuals with heart disease, impaired gag reflex, swallowing or breathing difficulties, those with seizures and those suffering from shock. 

Do not give Ipecac syrup with milk.

Before taking Ipecac syrup, tell the health provider if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Pregnant individuals must never take Ipecac syrup because it causes harm to the unborn baby. Ipecac syrup can also be expressed in breastmilk, so stop breastfeeding if you took Ipecac syrup. 

Make sure to tell the health provider all the medicines you are taking before using Ipecac syrup. Mention prescription medicines, over-the-counter medications, and herbal products.

To use Jack Jill Cough Syrup properly, you must follow all instructions given by your doctor.

Only use Ipecac syrup according to instructions of a health professional. Identify first the poison and call the health professional. 

If Ipecac syrup is found appropriate, the health professional will determine the correct dose of Ipecac syrup based on the patient’s age. Here are the usual doses of Ipecac syrup:

• Babies aged below 6 months – dose determined by the doctor
• Babies aged 6 months to 12 months – dose determined by the doctor
• Children age 1 to 12 years of age – 30 mL
• Teenagers and adults – 30 mL

Ipecac syrup is taken by mouth only and plenty of water (200 mL to 450 mL, or one to two glasses) is given afterwards. If vomiting does not occur in 30 minutes, you can give Ipecac syrup again for the second time. 

Do not give Ipecac syrup for the third time. 

Properly position the patient, especially children, and small babies, to avoid aspiration of vomited material. 

After giving Ipecac syrup, bring the patient to the hospital or medical facility immediately.

Before using Jack Jill Cough Syrup, there are some precautions you must take.

After giving Ipecac syrup, keep the patient active and moving. 

Ipecac syrup may cause drowsiness or dizziness. Do not drive or operate heavy machinery after taking Ipecac syrup.

As with many medications, there are several potential side effects associated with Jack Jill Cough Syrup.

Ipecac syrup has the following side effects:

• Diarrhea
• Drowsiness
• Stomach cramps
• Vomiting
• Severe allergic reactions like difficulty breathing, chest tightness, swelling of the mouth, face, lips or tongue