Rubbing (isopropyl) alcohol overdose

About Rubbing (isopropyl) alcohol overdose

Isopropyl alcohol is commonly used as a disinfectant, antifreeze, and solvent, and typically comprises 70 percent of `rubbing alcohol.` Ingestions occur accidentally, as a substitute for alcohol, or as a suicide attempt. Ingestions primarily cause inebriation, and when severe can cause cardiopulmonary collapse and death. Rarely bleeding from the stomach occur after an ingestion.

Symptoms

Confusion, inebriation, vomiting, abdominal pain, vomiting blood, decreased respirations.

Tests & Diagnostics

A history and physical exam will be performed. The diagnosis is made on clinical suspicion. An isopropyl alcohol level can be measured but is not readily available. Other tests to determine the extent of damage caused by the ingestion, and to rule out other causes of the ingestion will be done.

Common tests: BHCG, Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), CT Scan, EKG, Urinalysis (UA), X-ray.

Conventional treatment summary

Treatment is supportive and depends on the severity of the intoxication but may include: intravenous fluids and support of the respirations. A proton pump inhibitor drug and/or histamine 2 blocker may be administered for the upper gastrointestinal bleeding. For more information and help call your local poison center at 1-800-222-1222.

Medical specialties

Medical Toxicology

This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Rubbing (isopropyl) alcohol overdose.