Health Library

Propyl alcohol

N-propyl alcohol; 1-propanol

Propyl alcohol is a clear liquid commonly used as a germ killer (antiseptic). This article discusses poisoning from accidentally or intentionally swallowing propyl alcohol. It is the second most commonly ingested alcohol after ethanol (drinking alcohol).

This article is for information only. DO NOT use it to treat or manage an actual poison exposure. If you or someone you are with has an exposure, call the local emergency number (such as 911), or the local poison control center can be reached directly by calling the national toll-free Poison Help hotline (1-800-222-1222) from anywhere in the United States.

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Poisonous Ingredient

Isopropyl alcohol

Where Found

Propyl alcohol is found in any of the following:

• Antifreeze
• Hand sanitizers
• Rubbing alcohol
• Alcohol swabs
• Skin and hair products
• Nail polish remover

This list may not be all inclusive.

Symptoms

Symptoms may include:

• Abdominal pain
• Coma (lack of responsiveness)
• Decreased or absent reflexes
• Difficulty breathing
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Lethargy (tiredness)
• Low blood pressure (a sign of serious poisoning with increased risk of death)
• Low urine output
• Nausea and vomiting
• Slowed or labored breathing
• Slurred speech
• Stupor (decreased level of alertness and confusion)
• Uncoordinated movements
• Vomiting blood

Home Care

Seek immediate medical help. DO NOT make a person throw up unless told to do so by poison control or a health care professional.

Before Calling Emergency

The following information is helpful for emergency assistance:

• The person's age, weight, and condition
• The name of the product (ingredients and strength if known)
• When it was swallowed
• The amount swallowed

However, DO NOT delay calling for help if this information is not immediately available.

Poison Control

Your local poison control center can be reached directly by calling the national toll-free Poison Help hotline (1-800-222-1222) from anywhere in the United States. This national hotline will let you talk to experts in poisoning. They will give you further instructions.

This is a free and confidential service. All local poison control centers in the United States use this national number. You should call if you have any questions about poisoning or poison prevention. It does NOT need to be an emergency. You can call for any reason, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

What to Expect at the Emergency Room

The health care provider will measure and monitor the person's vital signs, including temperature, pulse, breathing rate, and blood pressure. The person may receive:

• Airway support, including oxygen, breathing tube through the mouth (intubation), and ventilator (breathing machine)
• Blood and urine tests including a blood isopropyl alcohol level
• Chest x-ray
• CT (computerized axial tomography) scan
• ECG (electrocardiogram, or heart tracing)
• Fluids through the vein (intravenous or IV)
• Laxative
• Medicines to treat symptoms

Outlook (Prognosis)

Propyl alcohol poisoning is rarely deadly. Long term effects are possible, including kidney failure, which could require dialysis (kidney machine). Dialysis may also be needed in serious cases of acute poisoning.

References

Ghannoum M, Roberts DM, Bouchard J. Enhanced elimination of poisons. In: Yu ASL, Chertow GM, Luyckx VA, Marsden PA, Skorecki K, Taal MW, eds. Brenner and Rector's The Kidney. 11th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2020:chap 67.

Nelson ME. Toxic alcohols. In: Walls RM, eds. Rosen's Emergency Medicine: Concepts and Clinical Practice. 10th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2023:chap 136.

Review Date: 1/2/2023  

Reviewed By: Jesse Borke, MD, CPE, FAAEM, FACEP, Attending Physician at Kaiser Permanente, Orange County, CA. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

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