Alcohols and Glycols

Ethanol and methanol are primary alcohols, and isopropanol is a secondary alcohol. Glycols have two hydroxyl groups in their molecules and are dihydric. Ethylene glycol (EG) is the most common glycol responsible for poisonings, and EG poisoning is significantly more common in domestic animals than is alcohol toxicosis. Propylene glycol and butylene glycol are much less toxic than EG. The chemical and metabolic properties of the previously mentioned alcohols and glycols are discussed in this chapter. Diagnoses and treatment options are also given for each. Ethylene glycol toxicity is covered extensively, and its treatment with fomepizole is discussed.