Bulimia: Misuse of Ipecac Syrup

Topic Overview

Syrup of ipecac is a medicine that causes vomiting. It works by irritating the stomach lining until a person vomits. Some people who have bulimia nervosa use ipecac regularly to make themselves vomit. Misuse of ipecac can cause:

  • Diarrhea.
  • Drowsiness.
  • Coughing or choking.
  • Low blood pressure and a rapid heartbeat.
  • Chest and stomach pain.
  • Breathing problems.

If ipecac is misused, it can cause serious heart problems, such as cardiomyopathy, atrial fibrillation, or myocarditis, all of which can lead to death.

Related Information

Credits

ByHealthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer W. Stewart Agras, MD, FRCPC - Psychiatry

Current as ofMay 3, 2017