The toxicity of glue is complex because the term covers a vast array of chemical formulations. Adhesives range from simple, water-based household products to highly reactive, industrial-strength compounds. The risk to human health depends entirely on the specific chemical composition, the quantity involved, and the route of exposure. Danger assessment requires distinguishing between glues that pose a minimal hazard, such as temporary obstruction, and those containing toxic solvents or corrosive agents capable of causing systemic poisoning or chemical burns.
Classifying Glues by Toxicity Level
Adhesives are broadly categorized into low-toxicity and high-toxicity formulations. Low-toxicity glues are generally water-based and solvent-free, such as polyvinyl acetate (PVA) craft glue and glue sticks. PVA is considered non-toxic and is approved by the FDA for certain food-contact applications. While not chemically poisonous, ingesting a large amount may cause mild stomach upset or a physical obstruction in the digestive tract.
High-toxicity glues include products designed for strength and rapid setting, often containing volatile organic compounds (VOCs), solvents, or reactive components. Cyanoacrylates (super glue) are generally low-toxicity upon ingestion because moisture causes them to solidify instantly, preventing systemic absorption. However, the curing action can generate heat and cause severe localized irritation or chemical burns if applied to the skin.
Glues containing powerful solvents or two-part reactive systems pose the greatest systemic health risk. Solvent-based adhesives, like rubber cement, frequently contain VOCs such as toluene, acetone, or xylene. Toluene is a known central nervous system (CNS) depressant that can cause intoxication, dizziness, and long-term organ damage through chronic exposure. Two-part epoxies and polyurethane glues utilize a resin and a separate hardener that must be mixed. The hardener components, often polyamines or isocyanates, can be highly corrosive, causing chemical burns and sensitizing the respiratory system.
How Different Exposure Routes Affect the Body
The physiological effects of glue exposure depend heavily on whether the substance is ingested, inhaled, or contacts the skin or eyes. Ingestion of low-toxicity glues primarily risks mechanical obstruction or mild gastrointestinal irritation. Swallowing glues with corrosive hardeners or solvents can cause extensive damage to the mouth, throat, and stomach lining, potentially resulting in perforation and systemic poisoning. Cyanoacrylate ingestion usually results in bonding to the teeth, tongue, or lips, rarely causing injury beyond the oral cavity.
Inhalation exposure focuses on the danger posed by VOCs and vaporized chemicals released by solvent-based and reactive glues. Breathing high concentrations of solvents can cause immediate effects, including headache, nausea, dizziness, and respiratory tract irritation. Serious exposure can lead to CNS depression, cardiac dysrhythmias, and in extreme cases, “sudden sniffing death.”
Direct contact presents two distinct hazards: rapid bonding and chemical irritation or burn. Cyanoacrylate glues bond skin and eyelids almost instantly, causing physical injury if surfaces are forcibly pulled apart. Epoxy hardeners and certain solvents are corrosive materials that cause chemical burns, eye irritation, and dermatitis, and repeated exposure can trigger allergic sensitization.
Immediate Steps Following Glue Exposure
Immediate action following significant glue exposure must prioritize safety and preventing further harm. For ingestion of chemical or solvent-based glues, significant inhalation, or eye contact, call the national toll-free Poison Help hotline at 1-800-222-1222. Poison Control experts provide specific instructions based on the glue type, amount, and the affected person’s condition.
If glue contacts the skin or eyes, flush the area immediately with copious amounts of lukewarm water for at least 15 minutes. For rapid-bonding glues like cyanoacrylates, do not attempt to pry apart bonded skin or eyelids, as this can tear tissue. Instead, soak the bonded area in warm water or apply vegetable oil to help loosen the bond over time.
For inhalation of fumes, move the affected individual immediately to fresh air. If the individual is unconscious or has difficulty breathing, call emergency medical services without delay. If a toxic glue has been swallowed, do not induce vomiting unless specifically instructed by Poison Control or a medical professional.