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Gastroenterology (Expert Forum)
Isopropyl Alcohol and anal douching
This forum is for questions regarding Gastroenterology issues such as Acid Reflux (GERD), Barretts Esophagus, Colitis, Colon/Bowel Disorders, Crohn's Disease, Diverticulitis/Diverticulosis, Digestive Disorders, IBS, Stomach Pain.
Isopropyl Alcohol and anal douching
by John-Aaron, May 31, 1998 12:00AM
I have a gay friend who is very important to me.....He is using 70% isopropyl alcohol for anal cleansing it acts fairly rapidly as an enema for him. It makes him a little light headed and sometimes causes abdominal pains and/or a general feeling of malaise. He recently complained of pains under his rib cage on his left side....Please let me know if this could be causing damage to him and what damage it would cause. Thanks
Dear John/Aaron,
Isopropyl alcohol is rubbing alcohol. On an equal dose basis it is more toxic than ethanol (alcohol in wine or beer). It can cause toxicity by ingestion or inhalation, but it is not absorbed through the skin. In addition to the effects similar to ethanol, it can cause inflammation of the stomach and bleeding; low blood pressure; kidney and muscle dysfunction; liver toxicity and breath with a sweet odor. I suspect that taking isopropyl alcohol rectally would cause some of it to be absorbed into the general circulation. I would discourage your friend from continuing this practice. I hope you find this information helpful.
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*Keywords: isopropyl alcohol, rectal administration
Doctor's Answer
