The management of isopropyl alcohol ingestion is largely what?

• A. Aggressive gastric lavage
• B. Chelation therapy
• C. Supportive
• D. Hemodialysis

Answer: (C)

Isopropanol poisoning is managed with supportive care because there is no antidote to reverse its effects and most patients improve with basic measures. It causes CNS depression and can lead to hypotension, but there is no specific detoxification treatment needed; once absorbed, it’s slowly cleared and its toxicity is mainly from the depressant effects rather than a toxic metabolite that must be countered with a antidote. Decontamination methods like gastric lavage are not routinely used, and activated charcoal has limited value for alcohols. Dialysis is not routinely indicated either and is reserved for severe, unstable cases or profound acidosis. So, the best approach is airway, breathing, and circulation support, with close monitoring and IV fluids as needed.