What is the treatment for salicylate (aspirin) intoxication?

The treatment for salicylate (aspirin) intoxication typically includes measures to reduce the absorption of the drug and promote its elimination from the body. Emesis (inducing vomiting), gastric lavage (flushing the stomach), and administration of activated charcoal are effective methods in managing acute aspirin overdose, particularly when the ingestion has occurred recently. Activated charcoal can bind the salicylates in the gastrointestinal tract, thereby decreasing their absorption into the bloodstream.

In cases of significant or severe intoxication, intravenous fluids may also be administered to support hydration and facilitate renal excretion of the salicylate. However, primary interventions focus on decontamination, especially when the patient presents shortly after ingestion.

Other treatments like administering naloxone are not appropriate for salicylate intoxication as it is an opioid antagonist and would not address the effects of aspirin. Immediate surgery is rarely indicated for salicylate poisoning unless there are specific complications, and simply increasing fluid intake does not actively address the introduction or absorption of salicylates in the context of an overdose. Therefore, the combination of emesis, gastric lavage, and activated charcoal is deemed the most relevant and effective treatment approach in this scenario.