Indications
Phenol (carbolic acid) is used in low concentrations as an antiseptic and mild local anaesthetic. It is found in some throat sprays and lozenges for sore throat, mouth and dental products to numb small painful areas, skin lotions to relieve itching, and some hand sanitiser and disinfectant products. Stronger solutions are used only by doctors for special procedures.
How It Works
Phenol damages the outer layer and proteins of bacteria and some fungi and viruses, killing them or stopping their growth. On skin and mucous membranes it also briefly numbs the nerve endings, which eases pain and itching.
Dosage and Administration
Use only as directed on the product label or by your doctor or dentist. Throat sprays and lozenges are used a few times a day for a short period. Skin and mouth products are applied in small amounts to the affected area. Hand sanitisers are rubbed over the hands until dry. Do not use more often or for longer than advised, and do not use undiluted phenol on the skin.
Interactions
No important interactions are expected with low-strength products used as directed. Avoid using several phenol-containing products at the same time.
Contraindications
- Allergy to phenol or any ingredient.
- Do not apply to large areas of broken skin, deep wounds or burns.
- Throat and mouth products are not usually for young children unless the label says so.
Side Effects
Mild side effects can include stinging, burning, redness, dryness or numbness where it is applied. Allergic reactions are uncommon. Strong solutions can burn the skin and mouth, and absorbing large amounts can affect the heart, kidneys and nervous system.
Get urgent medical help if phenol is swallowed in concentrated form, if it splashes into the eyes, or if anyone has burns, severe pain, vomiting, dark urine, confusion, seizures (fits), a slow or irregular heartbeat, swelling of the face or difficulty breathing after use.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Short-term use of low-strength throat, mouth or skin products as directed is unlikely to cause harm, but ask your doctor or pharmacist before use. Avoid applying phenol products to large skin areas or to the breast while breastfeeding.
Precautions and Warnings
- For external, mouth or throat use only as labelled; do not swallow lotions or sanitisers.
- Keep away from the eyes; if contact occurs, rinse with plenty of water for 15 minutes.
- If a sore throat lasts more than a few days or comes with high fever, rash or difficulty swallowing, see a doctor.
- Keep out of reach of children; concentrated phenol is poisonous.
- Some sanitisers are flammable; keep away from flames.
Overdose
Swallowing large amounts or concentrated phenol is a medical emergency: it can cause burns in the mouth and throat, vomiting, low blood pressure, seizures and coma. Do not make the person vomit. Rinse the mouth and get emergency help immediately. For skin exposure, remove contaminated clothing and wash the skin thoroughly.
Therapeutic Class
Antiseptic and disinfectant; topical local anaesthetic.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and heat, tightly closed and out of the reach of children.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.