When methanol is broken down by the body it results in formaldehyde, formic acid, and formate which cause much of the toxicity .

Treatment consists of stabilizing the person, followed by the use of an antidote. The preferred antidote is fomepizole, with ethanol used if this is not available.

Fomepizole is a medication used to treat methanol and ethylene glycol poisoning

Methanol Poisoning and Treatment with Dilute Ethanol

Methanol is a toxic form of alcohol that can cause blindness, coma, and even death if ingested. Methanol poisoning occurs when methanol is ingested, inhaled, or absorbed through the skin.

Symptoms of Methanol Poisoning

The symptoms of methanol poisoning can include:

- Blurred vision or complete blindness
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Nausea and vomiting
- Abdominal pain
- Confusion and disorientation
- Seizures
- Coma
- Death

Treatment with Dilute Ethanol

The treatment for methanol poisoning involves administering ethanol, which is a different type of alcohol that competes with methanol for the same enzyme that breaks down alcohol in the liver. This process slows down the conversion of methanol to its toxic byproducts, preventing further damage to the body.

Diluted ethanol is given to the patient to achieve a blood ethanol concentration of 100-150 mg/dL. This concentration is maintained until methanol is completely eliminated from the body. The patient's blood ethanol concentration is monitored regularly to ensure it remains within the therapeutic range.

Administration of Dilute Ethanol

Diluted ethanol can be administered orally or intravenously. The standard dose of ethanol is 10% solution, given at a rate of 1.5 mL/kg per hour. In severe cases of methanol poisoning, the dose may be increased to 2.5 mL/kg per hour. The patient is monitored for signs of respiratory depression, hypotension, and other adverse effects.

Conclusion

In conclusion, methanol poisoning is a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention. Treatment with dilute ethanol can effectively prevent further damage to the body and save the patient's life. However, the administration of ethanol should be done under careful medical supervision to avoid potential adverse effects.