Poison

Poison is a substance that can cause harm or death to organisms, usually by chemical reaction or other activity on the molecular scale, when a sufficient quantity is absorbed by an organism. The fields of medicine (particularly veterinary) and zoology often distinguish a poison from a toxin, and from a venom. Toxins are poisons produced by organisms in nature, and venoms are toxins injected by a bite or sting (this is exclusive to animals). The difference between venom and other poisons is the delivery method. Industry, agriculture, and other sectors use poisons for reasons other than their toxicity. Pesticides are one group of substances whose toxicity to various insects and other animals deemed to be pests (e.g., rats and cockroaches) is their prime purpose.

Classification

Poisons are classified in relation to the period of time required for them to inflict harm on the body, the type of harm they inflict, and the manner in which they are introduced to the body.

By time to effect

• Immediate poisons: These are poisons that show their effect immediately after their administration. Examples include cyanide and strychnine.
• Latent poisons: These are poisons that show their effect after a certain period of time. Examples include mercury and lead.

By effect

• Corrosive poisons: These are poisons that cause damage to the tissues at the point of contact. Examples include acids and alkalis.
• Systemic poisons: These are poisons that affect the entire body or a specific organ. Examples include arsenic and cyanide.

By route of entry

• Ingested poisons: These are poisons that are taken orally. Examples include cyanide and arsenic.
• Inhaled poisons: These are poisons that are inhaled. Examples include carbon monoxide and chlorine gas.
• Contact poisons: These are poisons that cause harm upon contact with the skin. Examples include poison ivy and poison oak.

Treatment

The treatment for poisoning depends on the poison consumed. In some cases, the individual may be advised to induce vomiting, while in others, they may be advised to consume activated charcoal to absorb the poison. In severe cases, the individual may require hospitalization.

See also

• Toxicology
• Venom
• Toxin
• Pesticide

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  Red lagoon at Losal Mine

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  World map of poisonings deaths per million persons (WHO 2012)

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  World map of poisonings DALY (WHO 2004)

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  Poisoning of Queen Bona by Jan Matejko