Alcohol in Hand Sanitizers Causing Disulfiram Ethanol Reaction
The use of ethanol-containing hand sanitizers throughout the world is increasing as everyone is suffering from the covid-19 outbreak. Amid this, recently a rare case of DER (Disulfiram Ethanol Reaction) in a patient has been published in the letter to the editor section of the journal Alcohol and Alcoholism’ 2020. According to the case report, the reaction was occurred by the use of hand sanitizer.
Disulfiram is the first alcohol sensitizing drug approved by the FDA to cure the dependence of alcohol. When disulfiram is mixed with alcohol, it results in an acutely toxic reaction. That’s why patients who consume disulfiram are advised not to consume ethanol.
Just a few days ago, FDA issued a warning against several hand sanitizers for containing methanol. Methanol is a toxic substance that causes death if it’s absorbed through the skin or lungs regularly. And, now the case of Disulfiram Ethanol Reaction due to the use of hand sanitizer is raising concerns among people.
What Are the Symptoms of DER– If someone is consuming disulfiram ethanol can cause nausea, uneasiness, abdominal and chest discomfort, flushing, etc. Patients who are undergoing disulfiram therapy will show these symptoms if they are exposed to some specific foods, sauces, or anything that contains alcohol.
Recently, a research study published in the Alcohol and Alcoholism journal suggests that Alcohol in hand sanitizers can get absorbed through the lungs or skin.
To resolve this issue, proper warnings should be made about alcohol absorption through the lungs or skin. Also, hand sanitizers, perfumes, and other products that contain alcohol should maintain cautions to modify their products to avoid this disulfiram ethanol reaction.
