injecting 95% Ethanol(Alcohol)into the liver

Question:

Doctors have recently found out that injecting 95% Ethanol (Alcohol) into the liver cures or provides great relief in liver cancer. In fact, it is becoming the treatment of choice. Alcohol that is drunk is only 5% concentrated. High concentrations of alcohol such as 95% cannot be drunk. What would be the Islamic standing on such a matter.

Ans:

The answer to your first question depends on certain clarifications: firstly, about the nature of the Ethanol used for injection – does it have intoxicating effects? Secondly, what do you mean by treatment of choice? Thirdly, is it the only way to give relief to the patients or are there some other ways also? Please answer these questions then I will be able to give you a definite reply.

February-2001