Brisbane: The Queensland Poison Information Centre (QPIC), located at the Queensland Children's Hospital, has reported a substantial increase in calls concerning vitamin gummies and ADHD medications, highlighting escalating concerns among parents. Over the past year, the centre has responded to more than 36,000 calls, averaging approximately 100 calls per day, according to a report by ABC News. (Photo credit: ABC News).

Rising Concerns Over Common Household Items
Among the top substances reported by parents of young children are paracetamol, ibuprofen, dishwashing detergent, silica gel, and multi-purpose cleaners. However, QPIC has also noted a worrying trend: a decade-long increase in calls regarding vitamin gummies, ADHD medications, and button batteries.

Danielle Dean, a pharmacist at QPIC, explained that vitamin gummies, often mistaken by children as candy, can lead to various side effects, including smelly urine and upset stomachs. "They look like lollies, so it’s easy to understand why children get excited about having more," Ms. Dean said.

Similarly, brightly coloured containers of dishwashing liquid, which are sometimes mistaken for water bottles by toddlers, have also been a frequent concern. Consumption of these liquids can cause throat irritation and mild stomach upsets, but in most cases, these symptoms can be managed at home with proper guidance.

A Milestone in Poison Control
Established in 1974, QPIC is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year. Over the decades, the centre has received more than 1.1 million calls, operating 24/7 to assist parents, carers, health professionals, and paramedics. Half of these calls come from worried parents, while 20% are from healthcare providers, and 6% from paramedics.

Ms. Dean emphasized the importance of the centre's role in assessing risks when parents call in a panic. "It’s often a very anxious time for the parent. We try to gather as much information as possible to determine if the child can be safely monitored at home or if they need hospital care," she explained.

Preparing for Seasonal Surges
As the weather warms up, the helpline anticipates an influx of calls related to snake bites. New Year's Eve is also typically a busy time due to incidents involving glow sticks. Ms. Dean added, "During cyclones, we see a spike in calls about mushroom ingestion, as toddlers often pick them up from the ground."

With 50 years of experience, QPIC remains a crucial resource for Queenslanders, providing immediate advice and support in potentially life-threatening situations.

WA Poisons Information Centre - Expert Advice Across Borders
The WA Poisons Information Centre (WAPIC) in Perth serves Western Australia, South Australia, and the Northern Territory, handling around 40,000 calls annually. WAPIC provides expert advice on poisoning from pharmaceuticals, household and industrial products, pesticides, plants, mushrooms, and animal stings. It works closely with the WA Clinical Toxicology service to offer specialized medical consultation for serious and complex cases.