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Refrigerant poisoning

Definition

A refrigerant is a chemical that makes things cold. This article discusses poisoning from sniffing or swallowing such chemicals.

The most common poisoning occurs when people intentionally sniff a type of refrigerant called freon.

Alternative Names

Coolant poisoning; Freon poisoning; Fluorinated hydrocarbon poisoning; Sudden sniffing death syndrome

Poisonous Ingredient

  • Fluorinated hydrocarbons

Where Found

  • Various refrigerants
  • Some fumigants
Note: This list may not be all inclusive.

Review Date: 10/24/2007
Reviewed By: Stephen C. Acosta, M.D., Department of Emergency Medicine, Portland VA Medical Center, Portland, OR. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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