Are you one of those who think that hydrogen peroxide is not dangerous? Think again!

A recent study has shown that there are risks associated with the use of the mild antiseptic. How could this possibly be?

According to a study recently published in the Annals of Emergency Medicine, researchers have discovered that up to 294 cases of peroxide ingestion over the past 10 years led to adverse effects. The ingestion of highly concentrated hydrogen peroxide can result in several dangerous situations, including critical illness. Some of them reportedly faced "continued disability or death."

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The antiseptic has been a common medicine cabinet staple among many households all over the world because of its availability and affordability. Hydrogen peroxide is usually used to disinfect minor cuts, scrapes, and burns, and is available in three percent to five percent concentrations.

Meanwhile, those that are available in concentrations higher than 10 percent are generally for commercial uses, and labeled "food-grade hydrogen peroxide."

The lead author of the study, Dr. Benjamin Hatten of the University of Colorado School of Medicine, said that "Peroxide ingestion cases are difficult to manage because not a lot of research has been done on these types of cases."

He further pointed out that in high-concentration hydrogen peroxide is "not a safe substance," which means that it could bring about dangerous effects.

"What I hope this study shows is that there are no scientific benefits to ingesting it, and there are very bad outcomes associated with it," he added.

Of the five deaths reportedly recorded following ingestion, one woman, 35, allegedly suffered brain and heart damage. Meanwhile, 15 others were allegedly permanently disabled.

"There's not a good scientific basis for this," Hatten said of the possible dangerous effects of hydrogen peroxide. "At best it's harmless, and at worst people can die from it."