Yes, drinking mouthwash can cause intoxication due to its high alcohol content, but it is extremely dangerous and not recommended.
The Alcohol Content in Mouthwash: A Hidden Danger
Mouthwash might seem like a harmless hygiene product, but many brands contain significant amounts of alcohol—often ethanol, the same type found in alcoholic beverages. The concentration of alcohol in mouthwash typically ranges from 14% to 27%, which is comparable to or even higher than some liquors. This potent alcohol content means that swallowing mouthwash can indeed produce intoxicating effects.
However, unlike beverages designed for consumption, mouthwash contains other chemicals such as antiseptics, flavoring agents, and sometimes toxic substances like methyl salicylate or chlorhexidine. These additives make it unsafe to drink in any quantity.
The intoxicating effect from mouthwash comes primarily from the ethanol present. When ingested in sufficient amounts, ethanol depresses the central nervous system, leading to symptoms similar to those caused by drinking alcoholic beverages—impaired judgment, slowed reflexes, dizziness, and in severe cases, unconsciousness.
How Much Mouthwash Would It Take To Get Drunk?
The amount of mouthwash needed to cause intoxication varies depending on the individual’s body weight, tolerance to alcohol, and the specific product’s alcohol percentage. Generally speaking, ingesting even small amounts—like a few tablespoons—can raise blood alcohol concentration (BAC) enough to cause noticeable effects.
For example:
- A typical shot of hard liquor (1.5 ounces at 40% ABV) contains about 0.6 ounces of pure ethanol.
- Mouthwash with 20% alcohol would require roughly 3 ounces (about two tablespoons) for an equivalent ethanol intake.
This means that drinking just a small cup of mouthwash could result in intoxication similar to consuming a couple of drinks. But here’s the catch: mouthwash also contains chemicals not meant for ingestion, which can cause nausea, vomiting, throat irritation, and poisoning symptoms alongside drunkenness.
The Risks of Using Mouthwash as an Alcohol Substitute
Some individuals struggling with alcohol dependence have turned to mouthwash as an alternative source of ethanol due to its easy accessibility and high alcohol content. This practice is extremely risky. Aside from the expected effects of intoxication:
- Toxic ingredients can cause damage to internal organs.
- The bitter taste and additives increase the chance of choking or aspiration.
- Overconsumption can lead to alcohol poisoning more rapidly than drinking beverages due to unknown concentrations and other harmful substances.
Even one-time accidental ingestion can be dangerous. Children are particularly vulnerable because their smaller bodies process toxins less efficiently.
Chemicals in Mouthwash Beyond Alcohol
Mouthwashes are formulated with various compounds designed for oral health benefits: killing bacteria, freshening breath, and reducing plaque. The main ingredients besides ethanol often include:
- Chlorhexidine: An antiseptic effective against oral bacteria but toxic if swallowed in large amounts.
- Methyl Salicylate: Provides minty flavor but can be poisonous if ingested excessively.
- Hydrogen Peroxide: Present in some formulations for whitening effects; harmful when swallowed.
- Essential Oils: Such as eucalyptol or thymol; generally safe topically but potentially irritating internally.
These substances make mouthwash far more hazardous than alcoholic drinks. Swallowing even moderate quantities can irritate mucous membranes and damage tissues lining the stomach and esophagus.
Symptoms of Mouthwash Poisoning
Drinking mouthwash leads not only to drunkenness but also poisoning symptoms that require immediate medical attention:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Abdominal pain
- Dizziness or loss of coordination
- Breathing difficulties
- Confusion or unconsciousness
- Seizures (in severe cases)
If someone ingests mouthwash intentionally or accidentally and shows signs of distress beyond mild intoxication, emergency services should be contacted immediately.
The Legal and Health Implications of Drinking Mouthwash
From a legal standpoint, consuming mouthwash as an intoxicant is not regulated like alcoholic beverages because it’s not intended for human consumption beyond rinsing and spitting out. This means there are no quality controls ensuring safe ingestion levels.
Health-wise:
- Chronic ingestion can damage liver function due to high ethanol exposure combined with toxic additives.
- Repeated use as an “alcohol substitute” may lead to malnutrition since mouthwashes lack calories or nutrients.
- Oral tissues may suffer chemical burns or ulcers from constant exposure.
Healthcare professionals strongly discourage using mouthwash for intoxication purposes under any circumstances.
A Closer Look at Mouthwash Alcohol Concentrations
| Mouthwash Brand | Alcohol Content (%) | Ethanol Volume per 100ml (ml) |
|---|---|---|
| Listerine Cool Mint | 21.6% | 21.6 ml |
| Crest Pro-Health Clean Mint (Alcohol-Free) | 0% | 0 ml |
| Colgate Plax Fresh Mint | 14% | 14 ml |
| TheraBreath Fresh Breath Oral Rinse (Alcohol-Free) | 0% | 0 ml |
| PocketBac Antibacterial Hand Gel (Not Mouthwash) | N/A | N/A |
*Included here just for contrast; hand gels contain different formulations not intended for oral use.
This table highlights that while many popular brands contain significant amounts of ethanol capable of causing intoxication if swallowed, some products are now formulated without alcohol entirely due to safety concerns.
The Science Behind Intoxication From Non-Beverage Alcohols Like Mouthwash
Ethanol’s effects on the brain do not discriminate based on source—it acts as a depressant on the central nervous system regardless if consumed via beer or mouth rinse. Once absorbed into the bloodstream through the stomach lining:
- Ethanol crosses the blood-brain barrier.
- It alters neurotransmitter activity causing impaired motor skills.
- It affects judgment centers leading to disinhibition.
However, when consumed through products like mouthwashes containing other chemicals:
- The body faces additional metabolic burdens trying to process toxins.
- Some ingredients may interfere with normal liver enzyme function.
This combination increases toxicity risks compared with standard alcoholic drinks.
Mouthwash vs Alcoholic Beverages: Why They Aren’t Equal Despite Similar Ethanol Levels
Though both contain ethanol capable of producing drunkenness:
- Mouthwashes often have denaturants added.
Denaturants are chemicals mixed with ethanol specifically to make it taste bad or be poisonous so people won’t drink it recreationally. These substances include methanol or isopropanol derivatives that cause blindness or organ failure if ingested — even in tiny amounts.
- Beverages are regulated for safe consumption limits.
Alcoholic drinks undergo strict quality controls ensuring consistent ethanol concentration without harmful contaminants. Mouthwashes do not have such standards since they’re designed solely for topical use.
- Toxicity potential is much higher with mouthwashes.
Because they contain multiple toxic agents alongside ethanol, ingesting them poses greater health hazards than simply drinking liquor.
The Dangers of Mixing Mouthwash with Other Substances
Some people might try mixing small quantities of mouthwash with juices or sodas attempting to mask its taste while seeking intoxication effects. This is extremely dangerous because:
- Masking bitterness encourages higher consumption levels before realizing toxicity symptoms.
- Combining chemicals from different sources may trigger unpredictable reactions.
- The risk of aspiration pneumonia increases if vomiting occurs after swallowing irritants mixed with liquids.
Even small attempts at “cocktailing” mouthwashes should be avoided entirely due to these compounded dangers.
Treatment Options After Accidental Ingestion or Poisoning From Mouthwash Drinking
If someone consumes mouthwash accidentally or intentionally:
- Avoid inducing vomiting unless directed by medical professionals.
Vomiting could worsen tissue damage or risk aspiration into lungs.
- Call poison control immediately.
They provide crucial guidance based on ingredients involved and amount ingested.
- Seek emergency medical care if symptoms worsen.
Medical staff might administer activated charcoal (to absorb toxins), intravenous fluids (to prevent dehydration), oxygen therapy (if breathing compromised), or monitor vital signs closely until stable.
Prompt treatment improves outcomes significantly after toxic exposure from non-beverage alcohol sources such as mouthwashes.
Key Takeaways: Can Drinking Mouthwash Get You Drunk?
➤ Mouthwash contains alcohol but is not meant for drinking.
➤ Consuming mouthwash can lead to alcohol poisoning.
➤ Drinking mouthwash is dangerous and can harm your organs.
➤ The alcohol in mouthwash is often denatured and toxic.
➤ Never use mouthwash as a substitute for alcoholic drinks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Drinking Mouthwash Get You Drunk?
Yes, drinking mouthwash can cause intoxication because it contains high levels of ethanol, similar to alcoholic beverages. However, it is extremely dangerous due to additional toxic chemicals present in mouthwash that are harmful when ingested.
How Much Mouthwash Does It Take To Get Drunk?
The amount varies by individual and product, but generally, just a few tablespoons of mouthwash with around 20% alcohol can produce effects similar to drinking a couple of alcoholic drinks. Even small quantities can raise blood alcohol levels enough to cause intoxication.
Why Is Drinking Mouthwash Dangerous Even If It Can Get You Drunk?
Mouthwash contains additives like antiseptics and toxic substances such as methyl salicylate that are not safe for consumption. These chemicals can cause nausea, vomiting, throat irritation, and serious poisoning symptoms beyond alcohol intoxication.
Is Mouthwash a Safe Alternative for Getting Drunk?
No, using mouthwash as an alcohol substitute is very risky. Besides intoxication, toxic ingredients can damage internal organs and increase the risk of choking or aspiration. It should never be consumed intentionally for its alcohol content.
What Are the Symptoms After Drinking Mouthwash to Get Drunk?
Symptoms include impaired judgment, dizziness, slowed reflexes, nausea, vomiting, throat irritation, and in severe cases unconsciousness. The presence of harmful chemicals in mouthwash can worsen these effects and lead to serious health complications.
Conclusion – Can Drinking Mouthwash Get You Drunk?
Drinking mouthwash absolutely can get you drunk due to its high ethanol content found in many commercial products. But it’s a dangerous shortcut loaded with toxic additives that make it far riskier than consuming regulated alcoholic beverages. The intoxicating effect comes hand-in-hand with potential poisoning symptoms including nausea, organ damage, respiratory problems, and even death in extreme cases.
Using mouthwash as an alternative source of alcohol is strongly discouraged by health experts worldwide because no amount is truly safe for ingestion beyond rinsing then spitting out. If accidental swallowing occurs once or twice in small quantities it may only cause mild dizziness; however larger intakes require urgent medical attention immediately.
Ultimately: while yes—you can get drunk on mouthwash—doing so carries serious health consequences that far outweigh any fleeting buzz it might deliver. Stay informed and keep these products strictly for their intended purpose: freshening breath safely without swallowing!