Varnish is a clear liquid coating. Varnish poisoning occurs when someone swallows varnish.

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.

Resin part:

• Amber
• Balsam
• Rosin
• Various substances produced from plants and insects (such as lac, urethanes)

Solvent part:

• Ethanol
• Mineral spirits
• Turpentine

• Some varnishes

• Eyes, ears, nose, and throat
  • Loss of vision
  • Severe pain in the throat
  • Severe pain or burning in the nose, eyes, ears, lips, or tongue
• Gastrointestinal
  • Blood in the stool
  • Burns of the food pipe (esophagus)
  • Severe abdominal pain
  • Vomiting
  • Vomiting blood
• Kidneys and bladder
  • Blood in urine
  • Kidney failure
• Lungs and airways
  • Breathing difficulty
  • Throat swelling (which may also cause breathing difficulty)
• Heart and blood
  • Collapse
  • Low blood pressure that develops rapidly
• Nervous system
  • Coma
  • Diziness
  • Impaired memory
  • Insomnia
  • Irritability
  • Loss of coordination
  • Sensation of being drunk
  • Severe brain damage
  • Sleepiness
  • Stupor
  • Walking difficulties
• Skin
  • Burns
  • Irritation