Talcum powder is a powder made from a purified mineral called talc. Talcum powder poisoning may occur when someone accidentally or intentionally breathes in or swallows talcum powder.

This is for information only and not for use in the treatment or management of an actual poison exposure. If you have an exposure, you should call your local emergency number (such as 911) or the National Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222.

Talc

Talc may be found in:

• Certain antiseptics
• Certain types of baby powder
• Talcum powder
• As a filler in some types in street heroin

Note: This list may not include all products containing talc.

Most symptoms are caused by accidental or long-term breathing in (inhaling) of talc dust, especially in infants. Breathing problems are the most common problem.

• Bladder and kidneys
  • Urine output, decreased significantly (or none)
• Eyes, ears, nose, and throat
  • Cough
  • Eye irritation
  • Jaundice (yellowed eyes)
  • Throat irritation
• Gastrointestinal
  • Diarrhea
  • Vomiting
• Heart and blood
  • Collapse
  • Convulsions
  • Low blood pressure
• Lungs
  • Chest pain
  • Cough
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Lung failure
  • Rapid, shallow breathing
• Nervous system
  • Coma
  • Drowsiness
  • Fever
  • Lack of desire to do anything (lethargy)
  • Twitching of arms, hands, legs, or feet
  • Twitching of the facial muscles
• Skin
  • Blisters
  • Blue skin, lips, and fingernails
  • Rash
  • Shedding (sloughing) of skin
  • Yellow skin