CDC reports 15 methanol poisonings from hand sanitizer

Hospitals have treated at least 15 patients in Arizona and New Mexico for methanol poisoning associated with alcohol-based hand sanitizers, according to a report released yesterday by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Six of the patients developed seizures, four died and three were discharged with visual impairment.

“Consumers who have been exposed to alcohol-based hand sanitizers containing methanol should stop using them immediately and seek immediate medical attention if they experience any concerning symptoms,” the authors said. “Clinicians should have a high index of suspicion for methanol poisoning when evaluating patients with either a history of swallowing an alcohol-based hand sanitizer or compatible signs and symptoms and, if needed, obtain medical management advice from their regional poison center (1-800-222-1222).”

The Food and Drug Administration has warned health care providers and the public not to use hand sanitizers containing methanol, and recently updated its do-not-use list of hand sanitizer products.