Maryland Poison Center (MPC)

06/05/2026

Spring blooms can be dangerous for curious pets. Before adding new plants to your home or garden, check whether they’re safe for your furry family members. Review a list of toxic and non-toxic plants to help keep pets safe- https://ow.ly/XMkL50R6U8q

06/04/2026

There is no such thing as child-proof! Child-resistant packaging is designed to slow children down, but it does not guarantee they can’t get inside. Curious kids can still open products if given enough time. The best way to protect children is to keep potentially harmful items up, away, and out of sight even if they have child-resistant packaging.

06/03/2026

Mouthwash should never be swallowed, especially by young children. Swallowing even small amounts can cause symptoms such as nausea and vomiting. Use the recommended amount and supervise children during use. Call 1-800-222-1222 if someone has swallowed mouthwash or for questions.

06/02/2026

This is a question we get asked all the time! It is not recommended to take any medicines past their expiration date. Most medicines lose their effectiveness over time and can cause risks if taken past their expiration date. Speak with a poison expert if you have taken an expired medicine or have questions by calling 1-800-222-1222.

06/01/2026

Spring is a great time to clean out your medicine cabinet! Safely dispose of unused or expired medicines by finding a permanent drop-off location near you or by following our tips for at home medicine disposal.

To find a drop-off location: https://safe.pharmacy/drug-disposal/

Medicine disposal info: https://bit.ly/MedDisposal-Info

05/29/2026

Festival season is here and it’s important to stay safe while having fun. Remember that the medical staff at festivals are there to keep you safe, not to get you in trouble. Save 1-800-222-1222 in your phone for fast, free, and confidential poison help available 24/7.

05/28/2026

The popular cake decorating product, luster dust, can either be edible or toxic, but labels are often unclear. Heavy metals have been found in these products, putting those who consumed it at risk for heavy metal poisoning. Read more in our new blog-

In 2018, six children from Rhode Island developed vomiting and diarrhea after attending a birthday party. While some cake decorating products are safe to eat, labeled as edible, others may contain heavy metals that can be harmful if swallowed. Let’s look at luster dust and how to prevent poisoning...

05/28/2026

Weight loss medicines are more popular than ever, but safety comes first! Never share medicines with others or take medicines that are not prescribed to you. Always speak to your healthcare provider first. They will prescribe you a dose based on what is best for your health, and what dose works for someone else may be unsafe for you. Call 1-800-222-1222 for poison help and read about weight loss medicines in our blog.

Many people choose weight loss as their new year resolution. In addition to the usual steps to achieving weight loss - setting specific and measurable goals, eating healthy, exercising, and other lifestyle changes - some people also use weight loss medicines or supplements.

05/27/2026

Today is National Sunscreen Day! Use sunscreen before stepping outside and reapply when the product label suggests to keep your skin safe. Call 1-800-222-1222 if you or someone else has misused a sunscreen product. Learn more about sunscreen safety in our previously published blog- https://bit.ly/4lqlXVW

05/26/2026

Button batteries are extremely dangerous if swallowed. Their small size makes them easy to swallow, but can cause serious burns and injury to the esophagus if swallowed. If your child plays with any toys containing button batteries, monitor their play-time closely. Call 1-800-222-1222 and seek medical help immediately if you suspect a button battery has been swallowed.