The Dangers of Drinking Rubbing Alcohol

Alcohol is one of the most commonly abused substances in America. According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), 29.5 million people suffered from alcohol addiction in 2022.

Alcohol is a central nervous system depressant that can lead to a wide range of effects. People might feel drowsy, lose their inhibitions, and experience increased confidence when they drink. The pleasurable side effects that alcohol can cause may lead to addiction.

The type of alcohol that is found in liquor, beer, and wine is called ethyl alcohol. There are other types of alcohol, including rubbing or isopropyl alcohol. The body metabolizes ethyl alcohol while rubbing alcohol is not intended for human consumption.

Unfortunately, some people begin drinking rubbing alcohol because it is stronger or they don’t have access to regular alcohol. This can lead to serious side effects,  including life-threatening rubbing alcohol poisoning if you or a loved one drinks isopropyl alcohol, an alcohol rehab center can help you regain control over your life.

Can You Drink Rubbing Alcohol?

Rubbing alcohol contains isopropyl alcohol and is used to disinfect surfaces and items within the home. You might find rubbing alcohol in hand sanitizers, nail polish remover, or cleaning solutions.

It is not intended to be used for human consumption like alcoholic beverages are. In other words, you cannot drink rubbing alcohol.

Consuming rubbing alcohol will lead to alcohol poisoning. According to a study on isopropyl alcohol, several deaths have occurred after a person drank one pint of rubbing alcohol.

Even though there is an extreme risk associated with consuming rubbing alcohol, individuals struggling with alcoholism might consume it.  This is because rubbing alcohol is incredibly potent in comparison to ethyl alcohol. People with alcohol use disorder might attempt to drink it to experience increased intoxication.

While rubbing alcohol can produce a more potent effect, you are likely to experience life-threatening risks like alcohol poisoning. If you or a loved one consumes rubbing alcohol, you should call 911 or poison control for help.

The Difference Between Rubbing Alcohol and Ethyl Alcohol

The main difference between rubbing alcohol and ethyl alcohol is the substance’s potency. Ethyl alcohol is diluted to ensure that it is safe for consumption.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), a standard alcoholic drink contains:

• 12 ounces of beer (5% alcohol content).
• 8 ounces of malt liquor (7% alcohol content).
• 5 ounces of wine (12% alcohol content).
• 1.5 ounces or a “shot” of 80-proof (40% alcohol content) liquor like vodka or whiskey

On the other hand, rubbing alcohol contains 70% isopropyl alcohol. This is a huge increase from traditional drinking alcohol, making it unsafe to consume.

What are the Effects of Drinking Rubbing Alcohol

Drinking rubbing alcohol causes similar effects as ethyl alcohol. However, the level of intoxication will be increased as the substance is potent. Additionally, the risk of overdosing is extremely high.

The signs someone has consumed rubbing alcohol include:

• Slurring of speech
• Loss of coordination
• Stumbling and unsteadiness
• Sedation or drowsiness
• Vomiting

Because rubbing alcohol is made with industrial chemicals, it is very hard on your stomach. Side effects from drinking rubbing alcohol may include:

• Upset stomach and vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Pain in the stomach
• Bleeding of the stomach and intestines

If you or your loved one consumes rubbing alcohol, you should seek emergency medical attention. Small amounts of the substance can lead to death due to alcohol poisoning.

What are the Dangers of Drinking Rubbing Alcohol?

Drinking rubbing alcohol is never safe. Understanding the dangers can prevent you from consuming isopropyl alcohol and experiencing life-threatening effects.

The main risks of drinking rubbing alcohol include:

Organ Damage

Isopropyl alcohol is metabolized differently than ethanol alcohol. Your body will turn the high amounts of alcohol into acetone. If you drink enough rubbing alcohol to experience intoxication, the acetone can lead to significant organ damage.

Alcohol Poisoning

Since rubbing alcohol has such a high percentage of alcohol content, drinking it can lead to alcohol poisoning. Unfortunately, people can die from alcohol poisoning without prompt treatment.

The symptoms of alcohol poisoning include:

• Slurred speech and mental confusion
• Balance issues
• Sedation and difficulty remaining conscious
• Vomiting
• Dangerously slowed breathing
• Decreased heart rate and blood pressure
• Seizures
• Clammy skin
• Dulled responses
• Low body temperature, blue color to the skin, and paleness

Chemical Burns

Rubbing alcohol is caustic, which means it can corrode organic tissue. When you drink rubbing alcohol, you could cause chemical burns throughout your internal systems. It is common for people who drink rubbing alcohol to develop chemical burns in their throats when they vomit.

Long-term effects of chemical burns can include cancers of the skin, stomach, and esophagus.

Find Help for Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism

If you or a loved one regularly consumes rubbing alcohol, it’s time to seek help. Alcohol rehab centers can provide you with the tools and support you need to achieve long-lasting sobriety.

Once you complete addiction treatment, you should consider attending a sober living program. Contact New You Sober Living to learn more about how we can help.