Yes, the human body metabolizes and breaks down methanol, but the metabolic pathway itself is extremely toxic and dangerous. When ingested, alcohol dehydrogenase enzymes in the liver convert methanol into formaldehyde, which is then rapidly oxidized into formic acid (formate). Because formic acid accumulates faster than the body can eliminate it, it causes severe metabolic acidosis, cellular oxygen deprivation, optic nerve damage, and potential blindness or death, making prompt medical intervention vital.