Methanol overdose

Definition

Poisoning from an overdose of methanol.

Poisonous Ingredient

Methanol (methyl alcohol, wood alcohol)

Where Found

• Antifreeze
  
• Paint remover or thinner
  
• Shellac
  
• Varnish
  
• Canned heating sources
  
• Windshield wiper fluid
  
• De-icing fluid
  
• Glass cleaners
  

Note: This list may not be all inclusive.

Symptoms

• Weakness
  
• Leg cramps
  
• Convulsions
  
• Breathing difficulty
  
• No breathing
  
• Blurred vision
  
• Blindness
  
• Dilation of the pupils
  
• Bluish-colored lips and fingernails
  
• nausea, Vomiting
  
• Drop in blood pressure
  
• Coma
  
• Fatigue
  
• headache
  
• Dizziness
  

Home Treatment

Methanol is highly toxic, and you must seek medical care at your nearest emergency room for any ingestion.

DO NOT INDUCE Vomiting.

Before Calling Emergency

Determine the following information:

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

Poison Control, or a local emergency number
Local emergency or Poison Control personnel will advise you if it is necessary to take the person to the hospital. See poison control centers for the national telephone number. Take any containers with you to the emergency room.

What to expect at the emergency room