What is methanol and why is it deadly to humans?

Six people have died in Laos over the past fortnight because of drinking alcohol suspected to be poisoned with methanol.

This includes British lawyer Simone White, Holly Bowles and Bianca Jones from Australia, and an unnamed US man and two Danish women, aged 19 and 20.

Their deaths are under investigation by police but it is suspected that they drank drinks poisoned with methanol.

But what is methanol and what can be done to protect yourself from methanol poisoning?

We answer some of those questions below.

What is methanol found in?

Methanol is mostly used to make solvents, pesticides, paint thinners, and alternative fuels.

It is very similar to ethanol – the pure form of alcohol in alcoholic drinks.

But unlike ethanol it has a different chemical structure that makes it toxic for humans if they consume it.

Once swallowed, our enzymes metabolise methanol into formaldehyde, the substance used to make industrial glue and embalming substances, before breaking it down into formic acid.

This is what makes the substance so deadly to humans.

The difference between methanol and ethanol cannot be detected unless specialist equipment is used.

How does methanol end up in drinks?

Methanol is found in alcoholic drinks particularly in southeast Asia and it has been a problem for a while now.

Methanol is sometimes added to alcohol instead of ethanol because it is a cheaper substance.

The counterfeit alcohol is then sold on to shops, bars and clubs for a cheaper price.

When alcohol is homemade though methanol can sometimes be added by accident.

It can be produced in toxic quantities when alcohol is distilled and fermented without the appropriate monitoring.

Is methanol toxic to humans?

Methanol is extremely toxic to humans and can be deadly.

Methanol can be toxic following ingestion, inhalation, or dermal exposure and typically there is a latent period of 12 to 24 hours after ingestion before symptoms appear.

The substance can affect multiple organs, and organ damage may be permanent.

How to protect yourself from methanol poisoning and how to avoid methanol poisoning?

The advice is to avoid drinks in Laos like local spirits that are labelled ‘special’ or ‘happy’ drinks.

People should also avoid mixed drinks like cocktails and counterfeit branded alcohol in bars and shops.

If you do drink alcohol in Laos, the advice is to stick to alcohol from licensed bars, hotels, or shops.

People should check labels for signs bottles may be counterfeit, including poor print quality or spelling errors and avoid homemade alcohol.

Avoid free drinks that you have not seen poured yourself, bottles that are not properly sealed and drinks and food left unattended.

What are the safety precautions when using methanol?

Methanol is a flammable and toxic chemical that can be dangerous if mishandled.

For your own safety, the advice is to not breathe in vapours or mist if using methanol and use protective equipment.

People should also keep it away from fire, sparks and other healed surfaces as well.

If someone is exposed to methanol you should call 999 or the medical emergency number in the country you are in.

If somebody inhales methanol vapors, move them to fresh air and keep them warm and monitor if something goes wrong. 

Methanol can get in a person’s eyes and if it does so immediately rinse with water for 20 minutes. If somebody swallows methanol, do not induce vomiting and immediately call a poison control center or doctor.

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