Hand sanitizer is a common item, offering a convenient way to clean hands when soap and water are unavailable. While generally safe for external use, accidental swallowing can raise concerns. Understanding its composition is important for assessing potential risks and knowing what to do.
Understanding Hand Sanitizer Composition
Hand sanitizers commonly contain active ingredients that work to reduce microorganisms on the skin. The most prevalent type is alcohol-based, typically using ethanol (ethyl alcohol) or isopropanol (isopropyl alcohol) as the primary germ-killing agent. These alcohol concentrations usually range from 60% to 95% by volume, making them highly potent. For instance, a hand sanitizer with 60% ethanol is comparable in potency to 120-proof liquor.
Alternatively, alcohol-free hand sanitizers often utilize benzalkonium chloride as their active ingredient. This compound, a quaternary ammonium, works by disrupting the cell membranes of bacteria. These formulations are less toxic upon accidental ingestion than alcohol-based types. Hand sanitizers may also contain inactive ingredients like fragrances, emollients, or water, which are less concerning in small amounts.
Immediate Steps After Ingestion
Prompt action after accidental hand sanitizer ingestion is important. For adults or older children who have accidentally taken a small sip or taste, providing water or milk to drink can help dilute the product and soothe any irritation. After this initial step, close observation for the development of symptoms is recommended.
In scenarios involving young children or pets, or if a larger amount of hand sanitizer has been ingested by anyone, immediate contact with Poison Control is advised. The national Poison Control Center helpline is 1-800-222-1222. This step is particularly important for young children due to their lower body weight and increased sensitivity to alcohol. Do not attempt to induce vomiting, as this can cause additional harm, such as aspiration of the substance into the lungs.
If severe symptoms rapidly develop, such as difficulty breathing, unresponsiveness, or seizures, it is important to seek emergency medical attention by calling 911. Poison Control can provide specific guidance tailored to the situation, including whether emergency care is necessary.
Recognizing Potential Symptoms and Risks
The symptoms experienced after ingesting hand sanitizer vary depending on the type and amount consumed. For alcohol-based hand sanitizers, common symptoms can include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and drowsiness. More serious effects may involve confusion, dizziness, headache, or a drop in blood sugar levels, known as hypoglycemia. In severe cases, particularly with larger ingestions or in small children, alcohol poisoning can lead to respiratory depression, seizures, or even coma. There have also been reports of hand sanitizers contaminated with methanol, a highly toxic alcohol, which can cause blindness or death.
Ingestion of alcohol-free hand sanitizers, which typically contain benzalkonium chloride, generally results in milder symptoms. These may include stomach upset, nausea, vomiting, or irritation of the mouth and throat. While usually less severe than alcohol poisoning, concentrated solutions of benzalkonium chloride can still cause more pronounced effects like corrosive injuries to the gastrointestinal tract.
Preventing Future Incidents
Preventative measures are important to avoid accidental hand sanitizer ingestion. Always store hand sanitizer out of the reach and sight of children and pets. A locked cabinet provides the most secure storage, preventing curious hands or paws from accessing the product.
Adult supervision is important when children use hand sanitizer. Teach them it is for external use only and to rub it until dry, preventing hand-to-mouth contact while wet. Dispense only a small, pea-sized amount to minimize excess that could be accidentally ingested. Some products are formulated with bittering agents to deter ingestion. When purchasing, consider looking for products that come with child-resistant caps or packaging to add an extra layer of protection.