Liquids to Induce Vomiting

While inducing vomiting is not healthy for the body, there are times when rapidly inducing vomiting can be life saving. Vomiting should be induced if a foreign object has been ingested or a poison or a toxin has been swallowed. Always contact a health care professional first.

  1. Ipecac

    • Ipecac is by far the most effective liquid that can be used to induce vomiting. Ipecac can be bought at the pharmacy and is usually found with baby products. Ipecac will induce vomiting within minutes. Care must be taken when ingesting ipecac as using too much will result in prolonged and violent vomiting. Always consult a health care professional before taking ipecac as the dosage will vary according to the size and age of the person. Ipecac is made of the roots from the ipecacuanha plant and dried rhizome. Ipecac is not sold commercially in quantities larger than one fluid once. A prescription is required to purchase larger quantities.

    Salt Water and Mustard

    • A salt water and mustard solution was used in ancient times to induce vomiting. The solution still works today, but care must be taken as ingesting too much salt can be harmful to the body. One tablespoon of salt mixed with mustard should be enough to induce vomiting.

    Copper Sulfate

    • Copper sulfate is another ancient vomit-inducing chemical. While not recommended by most physicians, the World Health Organization still recommends its use. Extreme caution must be used when ingesting copper sulfate as it is a toxic chemical and too much can be fatal.

    Hydrogen Peroxide

    • Hydrogen peroxide is an excellent method for inducing vomiting in a pet and is recommended by VetInfo.com. Hydrogen peroxide can be purchased at any super market or drug store. VetInfo.com recommends 1 teaspoon of hydrogen peroxide for every 10 pounds of weight in the animal. The pet should begin vomiting within 20 minutes of ingesting the hydrogen peroxide.