Indications
Glutaraldehyde is a strong disinfectant and sterilising agent. Its main use is the high-level disinfection and cold sterilisation of heat-sensitive medical, dental and laboratory instruments such as endoscopes, by trained staff. Weak skin solutions (about 10%) have also been used to treat common warts and plantar warts (verrucas), and to reduce excessive sweating, under medical advice.
How It Works
Glutaraldehyde reacts with and cross-links proteins in the walls and inner parts of microorganisms, which kills bacteria, fungi, viruses and, with longer contact, spores. On a wart it hardens and dries the thickened skin and kills the infected cells.
Dosage and Administration
Instrument disinfection: use only as directed on the product label and local infection-control procedures, including activation, contact time, temperature and rinsing. Wear gloves, eye protection and work in a well-ventilated area. Warts: apply a small amount of the skin solution only to the wart twice a day, protecting the surrounding skin, as directed on the label or by your doctor. Never swallow it or use it on the face, genitals or broken skin.
Interactions
Do not mix with other disinfectants or cleaning chemicals. When used on warts, avoid applying other wart treatments to the same area at the same time unless advised.
Contraindications
Do not use if you are allergic or sensitive to glutaraldehyde. Do not apply to the face, mucous membranes (mouth, nose, genitals), anal area or broken, inflamed skin. It must never be taken by mouth or injected.
Side Effects
On the skin it can cause brown staining, irritation, dryness, and allergic skin reactions (contact dermatitis). Breathing its vapour can cause eye, nose and throat irritation, headache, cough and, in some people, asthma-like breathing problems.
Get urgent medical help if it is swallowed, gets into the eyes (rinse with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes first), or if you develop wheezing, chest tightness, difficulty breathing or swelling of the face.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Small-area use of a wart solution is unlikely to cause harm, but ask your doctor before using it in pregnancy or breastfeeding. Pregnant workers should minimise exposure to vapour and follow workplace safety rules.
Precautions and Warnings
For external use only. Use in a well-ventilated area and keep lids closed. Instruments must be thoroughly rinsed after disinfection, as residues can irritate patients. Do not use on diabetic feet or in people with poor circulation without medical advice. Keep away from children.
Overdose
Swallowing glutaraldehyde can burn the mouth, throat and stomach and cause vomiting and breathing problems. Do not make the person vomit; seek emergency medical help immediately. Heavy vapour exposure can cause severe breathing problems; move to fresh air.
Therapeutic Class
Disinfectant and sterilant (aldehyde); topical antiwart agent.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a tightly closed container, in a cool, well-ventilated place away from light and out of the reach of children. Use activated solutions within the time stated on the label.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.