the Risks of Using Alcohol-Based Sanitizers: Key Concerns

Issues with medicinal alcohol?

Hello, Vice Dean.
Due to the impact of the pandemic, I have been using a lot of alcohol over the past two years.
I would like to ask some related questions:
1.
After spraying medical alcohol and rubbing it in, is there a risk of alcohol residue when directly handling food? Would this have any effect on the human body? What if I do not rub it in?
2.
I have seen other doctors mention that medical alcohol is similar to regular alcohol.
Does this mean that their compositions are the same?
3.
If a family member sprays alcohol and then rubs their hands near food or drinks, is there a risk of ingesting alcohol if a small amount of liquid escapes? I encountered this situation today but still drank the beverage; should I be concerned about monitoring this?
4.
How long does it typically take for alcohol to completely evaporate?
Thank you for your assistance!

K, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/07/28

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Medicinal alcohol comes in different concentrations and uses.
Alcohol used for epidemic prevention and disinfection evaporates quickly, leaving minimal residue on the skin.
The indirect inhalation or ingestion is also very limited and does not pose a health risk.

Reply Date: 2021/07/28

More Info

When it comes to the use of alcohol-based sanitizers, especially in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, there are several important considerations regarding safety and potential health risks. Here’s a comprehensive overview addressing your questions and concerns.

1. Alcohol Residue After Sanitizing: When you use an alcohol-based sanitizer, it is crucial to allow it to dry completely before handling food or eating. If you apply the sanitizer and then immediately touch food, there is a possibility of alcohol residue remaining on your hands. This residue can be harmful if ingested, particularly in larger quantities. Alcohol can irritate the gastrointestinal tract and may lead to nausea or vomiting. If you do not rub your hands together to ensure even distribution and drying, the risk of residue increases. It is recommended to rub the sanitizer into your hands for at least 20 seconds until they are dry to minimize any potential risks.

2. Differences Between Medical and Common Alcohol: The term "medical alcohol" typically refers to isopropyl alcohol or ethanol used in sanitizers, which may have different concentrations and additional ingredients compared to recreational alcohol (like beer, wine, or spirits). While both types contain alcohol, medical alcohol is often formulated to be more effective at killing germs and may include other compounds to enhance its efficacy. Therefore, while the active ingredient (alcohol) is similar, the formulation and intended use differ significantly.

3. Accidental Ingestion of Alcohol: If a family member uses hand sanitizer and then touches food or drink, there is a minimal risk of ingesting alcohol, especially if only a small amount is transferred. However, it is advisable to avoid this practice altogether. If you suspect that alcohol may have been ingested, it is essential to monitor for any signs of alcohol poisoning, which can include confusion, vomiting, seizures, slow breathing, or hypothermia. If any concerning symptoms arise, seeking medical attention is crucial.

4. Evaporation Time of Alcohol: The evaporation rate of alcohol depends on several factors, including the concentration of alcohol, the ambient temperature, and airflow. Generally, alcohol-based sanitizers can take anywhere from 30 seconds to a few minutes to evaporate completely. Higher concentrations of alcohol (like those above 60%) tend to evaporate faster. It is important to allow sufficient time for the sanitizer to dry before touching surfaces or consuming food to ensure that any residual alcohol has evaporated.

In summary, while alcohol-based sanitizers are effective in reducing the spread of pathogens, it is essential to use them correctly to minimize any potential health risks. Always allow the sanitizer to dry completely before handling food or drinks, be aware of the differences between medical and recreational alcohol, and monitor for any accidental ingestion. If you have any further concerns or experience adverse effects, consulting a healthcare professional is always a prudent choice.

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