Why Paraquat Tongue May Be Dangerous?
What You Need to Know

What is Paraquat Tongue?

“Paraquat tongue” is caused by the deliberate or accidental oral ingestion of a Paraquat-based herbicide. As Paraquat is widely used in commercial farming applications, the chemical may be unintentionally swallowed by farm workers and others who live near fields where Paraquat is sprayed. However, recent studies have found that in many cases ingestion of Paraquat was intentional.

Why is Paraquat Tongue Dangerous?

Paraquat is dangerous because it causes direct damage when it comes into contact with the lining of the mouth, stomach, or intestines. After paraquat enters the body, it is distributed to all areas of the body. Paraquat causes toxic chemical reactions to occur throughout many parts of the body, primarily the lungs, liver, and kidneys.

Paraquat Tongue Symptoms

• Redness
• Swelling
• Lesions, sores, and open wounds covering the tongue
• Excessive mucous production from open wounds
• Necrosis (tissue death)
• Severe pain
• Burning sensations
• Excessive saliva production
• Difficulty swallowing

Can You Survive Drinking Paraquat?

Paraquat is highly toxic to humans; just one small accidental sip can be fatal and there is no antidote. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) classifies paraquat as a restricted-use pesticide that should not be accessible to the general public and should never be placed into a beverage container.

What Should You Do if Someone Ingests Paraquat?

If you or someone you know has swallowed paraquat, you should dial 9-1-1 immediately. Treatment with activated charcoal can decrease the amount of Paraquat that is absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract. People who have ingested a large amount of Paraquat may require hemoperfusion, a procedure that filters the blood through charcoal to try to remove the chemical from the lungs.

Which Herbicides Contain Paraquat?

• Gramoxone
• Parazone
• Quick-Quat
• Para-Shot 3.0
• Helmquat 3SL
• Cyclone SL 2.0
• Firestorm
• Crisquat
• Dexuron
• Para-col
• Devour
• Bonedry
• Blanco
• Dexuron
• Esgram
• Ortho Paraquat CL
• Tota-col
• PP148
• Garmixel
• Pillarxone
• AH 501
• Bai Cao Ku

FAQs

How is Paraquat exposure linked to Parkinson’s disease?

Paraquat has been shown to cause oxidative stress and damage to the brain’s dopaminergic neurons, which are critical in the development of Parkinson’s disease. Prolonged exposure increases the risk of these neurodegenerative effects.

What should I do if I suspect Paraquat exposure?

If you suspect Paraquat exposure, seek immediate medical attention. Document your symptoms and exposure history, and consult with an attorney experienced in toxic exposure cases to explore your legal options.

Are there any alternatives to Paraquat for weed control?

Yes, there are several alternative herbicides and non-chemical weed control methods available that can reduce the risk of toxic exposure. These alternatives may include organic herbicides, mechanical weed removal, and integrated pest management practices.

What legal actions can be taken if exposed to Paraquat?

Individuals exposed to Paraquat and suffering health issues can file a lawsuit seeking compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. Consulting with an attorney experienced in toxic exposure cases is crucial for legal guidance.

See all related toxic tort lawsuits our attorneys have covered.

Get a Free Lawsuit Evaluation With Our Attorneys

The Pharmaceutical Litigation Group at Schmidt & Clark, LLP law firms is an experienced team of trial lawyers that focus on the representation of plaintiffs in federal lawsuits. We are handling individual litigation nationwide and currently accepting new Parkinson’s disease cases in all 50 states.

If you or a loved one developed Parkinson’s disease or other serious side effects after being exposed to Paraquat herbicide, you should contact a lawyer immediately. You may be entitled to a settlement by filing a suit and a lawyer can help.