Hydrogen peroxide is a chemical commonly found in many households, recognized for its antiseptic and cleaning properties. It is extremely dangerous to ingest and intended for external use only. Consuming it, even in small amounts, can lead to severe health consequences.
Understanding Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide is a clear, colorless liquid with the chemical formula H₂O₂. It is composed of two hydrogen atoms and two oxygen atoms, making it similar to water (H₂O) but with an additional oxygen molecule. This extra oxygen atom allows hydrogen peroxide to act as a powerful oxidizing agent.
It is available in various concentrations for different uses. Common household hydrogen peroxide is typically a 3% solution, used for purposes like wound cleaning or as a mouthwash. Higher concentrations, such as 6-10% used in hair dyes, 35% “food-grade” solutions, or even up to 90% for industrial applications, are also available.
The Dangers of Ingestion
Ingesting hydrogen peroxide, even at low concentrations, can cause immediate and severe health problems. When swallowed, it can lead to direct caustic injury, resulting in irritation and burning sensations in the mouth, throat, and esophagus. This can manifest as mouth pain, vomiting, and abdominal pain.
The compound rapidly decomposes into water and oxygen gas upon contact with internal tissues, which contain the enzyme catalase. This rapid gas formation can lead to significant gastric distension, causing bloating and severe abdominal cramping.
A more serious complication is the formation of gas emboli, where oxygen bubbles enter the bloodstream and can travel to vital organs. These gas emboli can block blood vessels, potentially leading to serious conditions such as stroke, heart attack, or respiratory distress. Even low concentrations of hydrogen peroxide can cause gas embolism, with higher concentrations posing a greater risk. Ingesting concentrated solutions, such as 35% or higher, can cause rapid loss of consciousness, respiratory paralysis, and severe internal burns.
Addressing Misconceptions about Ingesting Hydrogen Peroxide
There are unproven claims suggesting that ingesting hydrogen peroxide offers health benefits, often promoted as “oxygen therapy.” These theories propose that drinking diluted hydrogen peroxide can introduce extra oxygen into the body to treat various ailments, including infections, arthritis, diabetes, and certain cancers. However, these claims lack scientific evidence and are considered dangerous by medical professionals.
The human body naturally produces and regulates its own oxygen supply through respiration and other biological processes. Introducing external hydrogen peroxide orally is toxic and can cause severe internal damage rather than providing any therapeutic oxygen. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not approved high-strength hydrogen peroxide for internal use and considers concentrations of 35% and above to be dangerous.
Emergency Response to Accidental Ingestion
If hydrogen peroxide is accidentally ingested, immediate action is necessary. Contacting poison control or emergency services, such as 911, is the most important step. The national toll-free Poison Help hotline (1-800-222-1222) can provide immediate, expert guidance.
Do not induce vomiting unless specifically instructed by a healthcare professional or poison control. Inducing vomiting can worsen the caustic injury and increase the risk of aspiration or gas embolism. When seeking medical attention, provide as much information as possible about the ingested product, including its concentration, the estimated amount swallowed, and the time of ingestion.