What is the primary treatment approach for isopropyl alcohol and ethanol ingestion?

The primary treatment approach for isopropyl alcohol and ethanol ingestion is supportive care. In cases of alcohol ingestion, the focus is on monitoring and stabilizing the patient, addressing any immediate complications, and providing symptomatic relief. This includes ensuring the patient’s airway is protected, monitoring vital signs, administering intravenous fluids to maintain hydration, and addressing any associated metabolic derangements, such as electrolyte imbalances or acidosis.

While antagonism of alcohol dehydrogenase through the use of fomepizole or ethanol is an important treatment for methanol and ethylene glycol toxicity, it is not effective for isopropyl alcohol. Dialysis is generally reserved for cases involving severe toxicity or significant renal impairment and is not routinely indicated for isopropyl alcohol. Vitamin therapy is not a primary treatment for these types of alcohol ingestions but may be considered in cases where additional nutritional support is required or if there are risks for Wernicke's encephalopathy, typically associated with chronic alcohol use, not acute ingestion. Thus, supportive care remains the cornerstone of management for these types of alcohol poisoning.