Formalin (formaldehyde)

Formaldehyde, also known as formaldehyde, is one of the most common industrial chemicals. It is widely used as a preservative and disinfectant in medicine, dentistry, veterinary medicine, industry and scientific research.

However, despite its widespread use, formaldehyde is a toxic substance that can cause serious health problems if used improperly or if ingested.

The local cauterizing effect of formalin can lead to liquefaction necrosis (tissue destruction), as well as hepato- and nephrotoxic effects (liver and kidney damage). If poison is ingested, burns of the mucous membrane of the gastrointestinal tract, burning in the mouth, behind the sternum and in the epigastric region, as well as vomiting with blood, thirst and toxic shock are possible.

Inhalation of formaldehyde may cause lacrimation, cough, shortness of breath, irritation of mucous membranes, diffuse bronchitis, laryngitis and pneumonia. Psychomotor agitation can also be one of the symptoms of formaldehyde poisoning.

The lethal dose of formalin when taken orally is about 50 ml. In case of poisoning, immediate treatment is necessary.

Treatment of formalin poisoning includes gastric lavage with a solution of ammonium chloride or carbonate, ammonia (to convert formalin into non-toxic methenamine), as well as the use of sodium sulfate (30 g orally) and forced diuresis with the introduction of a 30% urea solution (100-150 ml).

To alleviate the patient's condition, cardiovascular drugs such as atropine (1 ml of 0.1% solution) and promedol (1 ml of 2% solution) intramuscularly can be used.

In case of poisoning by inhalation, it is necessary to take the patient out into fresh air and provide inhalation of water vapor with the addition of a few drops of ammonia, humidified oxygen, as well as codeine or ethylmorphine hydrochloride orally.

Thus, formaldehyde is a toxic substance that can cause serious health problems. When using formaldehyde, you must follow precautions and safety rules, and in case of poisoning, immediately seek medical help.