Get your health question answered instantly from our pool of 18000+ doctors from over 80 specialties
168 Doctors Online

By proceeding, I accept the Terms and Conditions

Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

HCM Blog Instant Access to Doctors
HCM BlogQuestions Answered
HCM Blog Satisfaction

What Severe Effects Would Occur After Drinking Diluted Harpic Twice, And What Might Happen Later?

Hello, I drank Harpic a month ago, diluted in water, although I think I took only one gulp. I did have slight symptoms of abdominal and esophagus pain as well, and yesterday, I drank it again, this time in much more quantity than before, still a little bit diluted in water. Nothing has happened to me yet. Why? I know I m asking why rather than what I should do. I just want a heads-up on what might happen to me later on.
posted on Thu, 22 May 2025
Twitter Thu, 25 Sep 2025 Answered on
Twitter Tue, 30 Sep 2025 Last reviewed on
Report Abuse
General & Family Physician,  's  Response
Hello,

It is very concerning as to why you should drink a toilet cleaner twice. Never do it. It is not made for human consumption. Toilet cleaners like Harpic contains chemicals and strong acids that are meant for cleaning the toilet. It can cause serious, sometimes life-threatening injury right away. You may feel fine but it can produce delayed complications weeks or even months later.

It causes respiratory distress. It can cause perforation in the esophagus or stomach. It can cause severe burn, in the mouth, throat and esophagus. Blood vomiting can occur. In long term it can also cause stricture or narrowing of the esophagus. Severe necrosis can develop, or life-threatening complications; long-term follow up for strictures and nutrition. There may be perforation or infection. There is an increased long-term risk of esophageal cancer.

You are advised to get clinically examined by a GP as soon as possible. You are also advised to get clinically examined by a psychiatrist.

Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards,
Dr. Nupur K., General & Family Physician
I find this answer helpful
Disclaimer: These answers are for your information only and not intended to replace your relationship with your treating physician.
This is a short, free answer. For a more detailed, immediate answer, try our premium service [Sample answer]
Share on
 

Related questions you may be interested in


Loading Online Doctors....
What Severe Effects Would Occur After Drinking Diluted Harpic Twice, And What Might Happen Later?

Hello, It is very concerning as to why you should drink a toilet cleaner twice. Never do it. It is not made for human consumption. Toilet cleaners like Harpic contains chemicals and strong acids that are meant for cleaning the toilet. It can cause serious, sometimes life-threatening injury right away. You may feel fine but it can produce delayed complications weeks or even months later. It causes respiratory distress. It can cause perforation in the esophagus or stomach. It can cause severe burn, in the mouth, throat and esophagus. Blood vomiting can occur. In long term it can also cause stricture or narrowing of the esophagus. Severe necrosis can develop, or life-threatening complications; long-term follow up for strictures and nutrition. There may be perforation or infection. There is an increased long-term risk of esophageal cancer. You are advised to get clinically examined by a GP as soon as possible. You are also advised to get clinically examined by a psychiatrist. Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further. Regards, Dr. Nupur K., General & Family Physician