CHILLICOTHE, Ohio — Authorities are investigating a reported incident in which a young child allegedly consumed a Gabapentin capsule at a residence on Watt Street. According to police, the child was transported to Adena Regional Medical Center (ARMC) for treatment following the incident.
Police records indicate that upon arrival at the residence, a caregiver claimed the child had obtained the medication from a bottle stored in a bedroom. The caregiver initially stated that the Gabapentin capsules came from the room of another resident, but police later found that the provided Gabapentin prescription contained tablets, not capsules. A chewed capsule was ultimately recovered from a trash can at the home.
The child’s parents reported arriving at the residence after work, where they found the child complaining of stomach pain. According to their statements to police, another resident informed them about the discovery of chewed capsules on the floor. The child’s father reportedly attempted to induce vomiting before emergency services were called.
One parent indicated awareness of alleged illegal drug activity within the home but stated this was the first issue involving the caregiver watching the child. The Gabapentin capsule was confirmed by ARMC medical staff to contain 300mg of the medication, which could have been potentially lethal if fully ingested.
Ross County Children Services was notified of the incident and has begun reviewing the case. Police advised the child’s parents that responsibility for the unsecured medication appeared to fall on both the caregiver and the resident whose prescription was involved. Police say criminal charges may be forthcoming.
The child was treated at ARMC and later discharged. The investigation remains ongoing as authorities await additional medical results.