On September 9, 2020, Medek, LLC recalled M Hand Sanitizer Alcohol Antiseptic 80% 128 oz/3,785 mL because it may contain methanol, which is toxic when absorbed through the skin or ingested. The product may also have a sub-potent ethanol content, which leads to a lack of efficacy.

The FDA first warned consumers about the possible presence of methanol in certain hand sanitizers in June and has continued to update consumers about potentially-affected products and recalls.

Recalled M Hand Sanitizer (see images) was distributed in Alamo, Texas and comes in 1 gallon HDPE plastic bottles with an NDC of 75432-001-02.

Methanol, sometimes called wood alcohol, is poisonous. Methanol exposure through the skin or by ingestion can result in nausea, vomiting, headache, blurred vision, permanent blindness, seizures, coma, permanent damage to the nervous system or death. The agency warned that consumers who have been exposed to hand sanitizer containing methanol to "seek immediate treatment, which is critical for potential reversal of toxic effects of methanol poisoning." 

All individuals who have recalled Medek hand sanitizer should immediately stop using it and return it to the place of purchase.

Methanol is a different form of alcohol than ethyl alcohol. Hand sanitizer containing at least 60% ethyl alcohol is recommended by the CDC for disinfecting hands when soap and water are not available, and is generally considered safe when used as directed. See the CDC's website for more information about using hand sanitizer.

For more information, use the link below.

Medek, LLC. Issues Voluntary Nationwide Recall of M Hand Sanitizer Due to Potential Presence of Methanol (Wood Alcohol) and Subpotent Ethanol Levels

See related warnings:

Nine Hand Sanitizers May Contain Toxic Ingredient That Can Cause Serious Illness or Death

Another Toxic Ingredient Found in Hand Sanitizer

SkinGuard24 Hand Sanitizer Recalled

Yacana Hand Sanitizer Recalled

Florence Morris Antiseptic Hand Sanitizer Recalled

Asiaticon Hand Sanitizers Recalled

Zanilast+gel Hand Sanitizer Recalled

Harmonic Nature Hand Sanitizer Recalled

Beware of Hand Sanitizers Packaged in Food and Drink Containers