Praxis Medical Insights

Est. 2024 • Clinical Guidelines Distilled

Made possible by volunteer editors from the University of Calgary & University of Alberta

Last Updated: 9/10/2025

Management of Accidental Camphor Ingestion

Initial Assessment and Triage

  • The American Heart Association recommends contacting Poison Control Center immediately to evaluate the systemic toxicity of camphor and receive specific guidance on management, with evidence from the American College of Cardiology 1, 2

Emergency Management

For Symptomatic Patients

  • The American College of Cardiology advises against administering activated charcoal unless advised by poison control center, as it has not been shown to be effective for camphor ingestion, with a strength of evidence based on clinical guidelines 1
  • The American Heart Association suggests not administering water or milk as dilution has not been proven beneficial and may cause emesis and aspiration, based on recommendations from the American College of Cardiology 1