This fact sheet answers the most frequently asked health questions (FAQs) about hydrogen peroxicde. For
more information, call the ATSDR Information Center at 1-888-422-8737. This fact sheet is one in a series
of summaries about hazardous substances and their health effects. It is important you understand this information
because this substance may harm you. The effects of exposure to any hazardous substance depend on the
dose, the duration, how you are exposed, personal traits and habits, and whether other chemicals are present.
HIGHLIGHTS: Hydrogen peroxide is a manufactured chemical, although small
amounts of hydrogen peroxide gas may occur naturally in the air. Low
exposure may occur from use at home; higher exposures may occur from
industrial use. Exposure to hydrogen peroxide can cause irritation of the eyes,
throat, respiratory airway, and skin. Drinking concentrated liquid can cause
mild to severe gastrointestinal effects. This substance has been found in at
least 18 of the 1,585 National Priorities List sites identified by the
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
What is hydrogen peroxide?
Hydrogen peroxide is a colorless liquid at room temperature
with a bitter taste. Small amounts of gaseous hydrogen
peroxide occur naturally in the air. Hydrogen peroxide is
unstable, decomposing readily to oxygen and water with
release of heat. Although nonflammable, it is a powerful
oxidizing agent that can cause spontaneous combustion
when it comes in contact with organic material.
Hydrogen peroxide is found in many households at low
concentrations (3-9%) for medicinal applications and as a
clothes and hair bleach. In industry, hydrogen peroxide in
higher concentrations is used as a bleach for textiles and
paper, as a component of rocket fuels, and for producing
foam rubber and organic chemicals.
What happens to hydrogen peroxide when it
enters the environment?
‘ Hydrogen peroxide released to the atmosphere will react
very rapidly with other compounds found in air.
‘ Hydrogen peroxide breaks down rapidly in water.
‘ If released to soil, hydrogen peroxide will be broken down
by reacting with other compounds.
‘ Hydrogen peroxide does not accumulate in the food chain.
How might I be exposed to hydrogen peroxide?
‘ You can be exposed to hydrogen peroxide through its use
as a general disinfectant. Hydrogen peroxide solutions used
for this purpose are sold at almost all drugstores or
supermarkets.
‘ Because hydrogen peroxide is used in many industries for
a variety of purposes, workers in such industries may be
exposed to this chemical through inhalation or contact with
the skin.
How can hydrogen peroxide affect my health?
Hydrogen peroxide can be toxic if ingested, inhaled, or by
contact with the skin or eyes. Inhalation of household
strength hydrogen peroxide (3%) can cause respiratory
irritation. Exposure to household strength hydrogen