Beware of methanol poisoning. Recent reports from Laos highlight a tragic incident where six (6) tourists including two (2) Australians lost their lives due to methanol poisoning after consuming contaminated alcoholic beverages. Several other tourists are still being treated in hospitals due to methanol poisoning. It will soon be nearing the end of the year. Society certainly knows that the end of the year is often celebrated by drinking spirits, wine or beer, so it is crucial to be aware, so as not to experience methanol poisoning. The consequences can be very fatal.

What Is Methanol Poisoning?

Methanol poisoning is a severe medical condition caused by the ingestion or inhalation of methanol, a toxic alcohol commonly found in industrial products like antifreeze and solvents. While methanol is not intended for consumption, it often contaminates illicitly distilled alcoholic beverages due to its low cost compared to ethanol. Poisonings of Methanol may occur after oral ingestion, inhalation, or even dermal absorption. Even small amounts of methanol can have devastating effects. Methanol gives toxic effects because it metabolized to the highly toxic formic acid/format complex which can cause several life-threatening condition:

• metabolic acidosis leading to organ failure
• neurologic sequelae
• visual disturbance including blindness
• death

As little as 30 mL of pure methanol has been reported to cause fatalities, and 10mL to cause blindness.

Symptoms of Methanol Poisoning

 Recognizing the early signs of methanol poisoning can save lives. Symptoms usually progressed vary.

In the First Few Hours people with methanol poisoning suffer from:

• nausea and vomiting,
• Abdominal pain,
• Dizziness,
• fatigue.

More severe symptoms appear after >12-24 hours or longer depending on concomitant ethanol that may delay onset of manifestations of methanol ingestion.

• feeling a severe/unusual “hangover”
• drowsiness,
• concentration problems
• dizziness
• rapid and labored breathing
• nausea/vomiting
• epigastric pain
• visual disturbances - blurred vision, diminished visual acuity up to loss of vision, referred as “snowfield blindness”
• neurologic signs which is reduced level of consciousness eventually progressing to coma
• untreated severe methanol poisoning can lead to irreversible organ damage or death.

What to Do in Case of Methanol Poisoning

1. Seek Medical Assistance Immediately: Rapid treatment is critical. Contact emergency services or visit the nearest hospital without delay.
2. Antidote Administration: Ethanol or fomepizole, the primary antidotes for methanol poisoning, help block methanol metabolism and limit its toxic effects.
3. Dialysis: In severe cases, dialysis may be required to remove methanol and its metabolites from the bloodstream effectively.
4. Notify your insurance company as they be able to assist with medical advice, referrals to medical facilities, guaranteeing medical expenses and arranging medical evacuation.

For tourists in remote areas, like islands or small towns, knowing where to access healthcare can be lifesaving. Nusa Medica Clinics are your safety net. We offer emergency care for alcohol-related incidents, rapid assessment, IV therapy, and referrals for higher level care and dialysis if necessary. Nusa Medica clinics provide 24/7 medical services and are in key tourist destinations, including:

• Canggu
• Pecatu
• Ubud
• Nusa Penida - (2 branches)
• Gili Trawangan
• Gili Air

How to Prevent Methanol Poisoning

To avoid methanol poisoning:

• be cautious about the source of alcoholic beverages, especially in unfamiliar settings
• stick to reputable brands, sealed bottles, purchased from reputable establishments
• avoid drinks that seem suspiciously cheap or are served in unmarked containers
• consider avoiding locally produced spirits unless the safety can be verified

Methanol poisoning is preventable with proper awareness and caution.

Final Thoughts

Methanol poisoning is preventable with awareness and vigilance. For tourists, it’s crucial to make informed choices about where and what to drink. For healthcare workers, early recognition and treatment of methanol toxicity can save lives.

Don’t put your life at risk! If you’re traveling to regions where such incidents are common, always err on the side of safety. When in doubt, seek advice from medical professionals or reputable organizations. Remember, your health is priceless. By staying informed about methanol poisoning, you can better protect yourself and your loved ones from this hidden danger.(*)

Writer: dr. Almira Talitha Ulima – Medical Doctor Nusa Medica Clinic