Before the pandemic’s arrival, there was
back-and-forth in some circles regarding the use of hand sanitizers. Then came
quarantines and the stuff flew off stores’ shelves. Now, the U.S. Food and Drug
Administration warns us that what had been seen as our saving grace may have
inherent dangers.
The FDA released a warning based on
a sharp increase in hand sanitizer products that are labeled to contain
ethanol (also known as ethyl alcohol), but that have tested positive for
contamination from methanol, or wood alcohol, a substance that can be toxic
when absorbed through the skin and can be life-threatening when ingested.
“Methanol is not an acceptable active
ingredient for hand sanitizers and must not be used due to its toxic effects,”
the announcement notes, adding that investigation into hand sanitizer products
is continuing.
“Consumers who have been exposed to hand
sanitizer containing methanol and are experiencing symptoms should seek
immediate treatment for potential reversal of toxic effects of methanol
poisoning.
Substantial methanol exposure can result in
nausea, vomiting, headache, blurred vision, permanent blindness, seizures,
coma, permanent damage to the nervous system or death. Although all people
using these products on their hands are at risk for methanol poisoning, young
children who accidentally ingest these products and adolescents and adults who
drink these products as an alcohol (ethanol) substitute, are most at risk.”
Yikes! FDA is reminding everyone that washing
one’s hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds is best, especially
after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after coughing, sneezing, or
blowing one’s nose. Only use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at
least 60 percent ethanol (also referred to as ethyl alcohol) if soap and water
are not readily available.
In addition, the FDA warns against any hand
sanitizers that say they are FDA-approved, since the agency doesn’t approve any
of these products, or hand sanitizers that claim to stop the spread of any
disease, or prolonged protections.
And again, NEVER drink the stuff.