Swallowing Buckyballs (Fullerenes): Health Risks and Emergency Response

What Are Buckyballs?

Buckyballs (C60 fullerenes) are spherical carbon molecules. Industrial or research-grade; not for consumption.

Potential Hazards

• Intestinal obstruction: Non-digestible, can clump and block the GI tract.
• Internal injury: Rigid spheres may lacerate mucosa.
• Toxicity concerns: Animal studies show oxidative stress and organ accumulation; human data lacking.
• Systemic absorption: Nanoparticles may cross into bloodstream; long-term effects unknown.

Emergency Action

If swallowed, seek medical attention immediately. Do not induce vomiting. Imaging (X-ray, CT) may locate them. Management ranges from observation to endoscopic/surgical removal depending on symptoms and quantity.