Organic solvents are a heterogeneous group of chemicals with different chemical structures which are usually used in the form of mixtures. They often contain toxic impurities or addi­tives. Their toxicity depends on the solvent type and composition, as well as its route of admi­nistration and duration of exposure. During patient assessment, the physician has to consider the toxicity characteristics of the solvent, along with its physical and chemical properties. The diagnosis of organic solvents poisoning should be based on the patient’s medical history, cli­nical examination and basic laboratory findings. After oral exposure, the patient’s health may also be threatened by solvent aspiration. A proper differentiation between systemic toxicity and risk of solvent aspiration is crucial for choosing an appropriate method to decontami­nate the gastrointestinal tract. In most cases of organic solvents poisoning, symptomatic treat­ment is sufficient. The article also presents triage recommendations for patients poisoned by an organic solvent.