Skip to content
A - Z Ind e x

Poison Center Helpline 1-800-222-1222

Topics in My Child Ate...

Not sure what to do? Have an urgent question?

If your child is having symptoms or you don't know the exact substance or amount swallowed, call the Poison Center Hotline at 1-800-222-1222. This call is free and confidential.

Call Now

My Child Ate Desitin

Desitin
Desitin is usually nontoxic .

If your child ate Desitin, give them a few sips of water and watch for loose stools, vomiting or diarrhea.

If your child ate talcum powder, call IPC now at 1-800-222-1222.
This call is free and confidential.

What to know: Desitin

  • Desitin is also known as diaper rash cream, A+D Ointment, Triple Paste, Boudreaux's Butt Paste, Balmex and diaper rash ointment.

Toxicity Level

What are toxicity levels?

My child ate Desitin. Is Desitin toxic?

Desitin is usually nontoxic. It contains zinc oxide and is used to treat diaper rash and other skin irritations. Eating a mouthful or less is expected to cause a mild laxative effect at worst.

However, talcum powder can be fatal if inhaled or ingested. If your child ate talcum powder or prescription diaper rash cream, call IPC immediately at 1-800-222-1222.

Symptoms of Poisoning

Eating Desitin usually doesn’t cause any symptoms, but your child may have an episode of vomiting, a loose stool or mild diarrhea. If the episode persists, call IPC immediately at 1-800-222-1222.

Eye Exposure

  • Desitin may cause irritation if exposed to eyes.

  • If your child got Desitin in their eyes, rinse by pouring clean, lukewarm water across the affected eye(s) for 15 minutes.

For more instructions, please see our page on eye exposure information.

Have an urgent question or need more help?

Don't hesitate to call IPC at

1-800-222-1222

This call is free and confidential.

What Others Search For