Para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA) is a naturally occurring substance that is often used in sunscreen products. PABA is sometimes called vitamin Bx, but it is not a true vitamin.

This article discusses reactions due to PABA overdoses and allergic responses. PABA overdose occurs when someone accidentally or intentionally takes more than the normal or recommended amount of this substance.

PABA; Vitamin Bx

Para-aminobenzoic acid (also known as 4-aminobenzoic acid)

PABA is used in certain sunscreen and skin care products.

It may also naturally occur in the following products:

• Brewer's yeast
• Liver
• Molasses
• Mushrooms
• Spinach
• Whole grains

This list may not include all products that contain PABA.

• Coma
• Diarrhea
• Dizziness
• Eye irritation if it touches the eyes
• Fever
• Liver failure
• Nausea
• Rash (allergic)
• Shortness of breath
• Slowed breathing
• Stupor
• Vomiting

Note: Most PABA reactions are due to allergic reactions, not overdoses.

Seek immediate medical help. Do NOT make a person throw up unless told to do so by Poison Control or a health care professional.

If the chemical is on the skin or in the eyes, flush with lots of water for at least 15 minutes.

If the chemical was swallowed, immediately give the person water or milk, unless instructed otherwise by a health care provider. Do NOT give water or milk if the patient is having symptoms (such as vomiting, convulsions, or a decreased level of alertness) that make it hard to swallow.

Determine the following information:

• Patient's age, weight, and condition
• Name of the product (ingredients and strength, if known)
• Time it was swallowed
• Amount swallowed

The National Poison Control Center (1-800-222-1222) can be called from anywhere in the United States. This national hotline number will let you talk to experts in poisoning. They will give you further instructions.

This is a free and confidential service. All local poison control centers in the United States use this national number. You should call if you have any questions about poisoning or poison prevention. It does NOT need to be an emergency. You can call for any reason, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Take the container with you to the hospital, if possible.

See: Poison control center - emergency number

The health care provider will measure and monitor your vital signs, including temperature, pulse, breathing rate, and blood pressure. Symptoms will be treated as appropriate. You may receive:

• Activated charcoal
• Artificial respiration
• Fluids by IV
• Tube through the mouth into the stomach to wash out the stomach (gastric lavage)
• Medicines for allergic reactions

How well you do depends on the amount of poison swallowed and how quickly treatment is received. The faster you get medical help, the better the chance for recovery.

Swallowing sunscreen products containing PABA rarely causes symptoms, except in very large doses. Some people may be allergic to PABA.