Rubbing alcohol, primarily composed of isopropyl alcohol (isopropanol), is a common household product used for cleaning and disinfection. It is highly toxic when swallowed and is distinctly different from the ethanol found in alcoholic beverages. Its widespread availability in concentrations typically ranging from 68% to 99% makes accidental or intentional ingestion a serious concern.
How Rubbing Alcohol Affects the Body
Upon ingestion, isopropyl alcohol is rapidly absorbed into the bloodstream, with peak levels often occurring within 30 minutes to three hours. The liver metabolizes isopropyl alcohol primarily into acetone through the action of alcohol dehydrogenase. Acetone itself is a central nervous system (CNS) depressant, contributing to and prolonging the substance’s effects on the body.
Isopropyl alcohol is a potent CNS depressant, more so than ethanol, leading to various neurological effects. These can range from mild confusion, dizziness, and headaches to more severe symptoms such as slurred speech, uncoordinated movement, stupor, and even coma. Respiratory depression, where breathing becomes dangerously slow or shallow, is also a significant concern, potentially leading to respiratory arrest.
The substance is also irritating to the gastrointestinal tract, frequently causing gastritis, which is inflammation of the stomach lining. This irritation can manifest as nausea, vomiting, and severe abdominal pain, and in some cases, it may lead to gastrointestinal bleeding. Beyond the digestive system, isopropyl alcohol can affect the cardiovascular system, potentially causing low blood pressure and a rapid heart rate.
While the kidneys play a role in excreting acetone, prolonged exposure or significant ingestion can sometimes lead to renal impairment. Acute kidney injury is rare, though isopropyl alcohol can cause false elevations in certain lab tests.
Identifying and Addressing Ingestion
Determining a specific “fatal dose” for rubbing alcohol is complex because toxicity varies significantly among individuals. Factors such as a person’s age, weight, overall health, and the concentration of the ingested alcohol all play a role. Even small amounts can be dangerous, particularly for children, who are more susceptible to its toxic effects. Survival has been noted with large quantities, illustrating the variability in individual responses.
Signs and symptoms of rubbing alcohol poisoning can emerge rapidly, sometimes within minutes, but may also take a few hours to become noticeable. Common initial indicators include nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Neurological symptoms often follow, such as dizziness, headache, confusion, and slurred speech, mimicking the effects of ethanol intoxication.
As poisoning progresses, more severe symptoms can develop, including significantly low blood pressure, a rapid heart rate, and a decrease in body temperature. Breathing may become slow and shallow, and in severe cases, the individual may become unresponsive or fall into a coma. A distinct fruity odor on the breath, resulting from the body’s metabolism of isopropyl alcohol into acetone, can also be present.
Immediate medical attention is necessary if rubbing alcohol ingestion is suspected or confirmed. Do not wait for symptoms to appear, as early intervention can be life-saving. Contact emergency services by calling 911, and simultaneously reach out to the American Association of Poison Control Centers at 1-800-222-1222.
When seeking help, provide as much detail as possible, including the person’s age and weight, the name of the product, the amount swallowed, and the estimated time of ingestion. It is important to avoid inducing vomiting, as this can cause further injury to the esophagus due to the corrosive nature of rubbing alcohol. Treatment typically involves supportive care in a hospital setting to manage symptoms and stabilize the individual.