Hand sanitizer is formulated for external use to help reduce germs on the skin. It is not intended for consumption and can cause serious harm if ingested. Even a small amount can lead to adverse effects, especially in children, due to its potent composition.
Key Hazardous Ingredients
Hand sanitizers commonly contain high concentrations of alcohol (40-95% by volume). These include ethanol (ethyl alcohol) and isopropanol (isopropyl alcohol). Ethanol-based sanitizers, particularly those with 60% concentration, can be as potent as 120-proof liquor if swallowed.
Beyond ethanol and isopropanol, some hand sanitizers contain methanol (methyl alcohol), which is highly toxic. Methanol is not an acceptable ingredient for hand sanitizer products marketed in the United States and can be life-threatening. Other potentially harmful additives include denaturants, bittering agents designed to deter ingestion, and various fragrances that can make the product appealing, particularly to children.
Immediate Physiological Responses
Ingesting hand sanitizer can lead to immediate symptoms similar to general alcohol poisoning. Common early signs include nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Individuals may also experience dizziness, confusion, and slurred speech due to the central nervous system effects of alcohol.
Drowsiness and a rapid heart rate are also common. For children, even a small amount can cause a drop in blood sugar levels, leading to hypoglycemia. These symptoms indicate the body’s reaction to the high alcohol content and other ingredients.
Severe Systemic Complications
Consuming larger quantities of hand sanitizer can result in more severe, life-threatening complications. These include respiratory depression, where breathing becomes dangerously slow, and seizures. In some cases, ingestion can lead to a coma, a state of prolonged unconsciousness.
The high alcohol content can also cause significant damage to internal organs, particularly the liver and kidneys, responsible for filtering toxins. Methanol poisoning, specifically, can lead to severe metabolic acidosis, a chemical imbalance in the blood, and permanent blindness. Tragically, cases of death have been reported from ingesting hand sanitizers containing methanol.
Emergency Protocol
If someone has ingested hand sanitizer, contacting a poison control center or emergency services, such as 911 in the United States, is crucial. Do not attempt to induce vomiting unless specifically instructed to do so by a medical professional.
Gather as much information as possible about the product, including the specific brand, ingredients, and the estimated amount ingested, to provide to emergency responders. Hand sanitizers should always be stored out of reach of children and used under adult supervision to prevent accidental ingestion.