Isopropyl Alcohol
Indications
Isopropyl Alcohol is an antiseptic and disinfectant for external use only. It is used to clean the skin before injections and blood tests, as a hand rub when soap and water are not available, and to disinfect small surfaces and medical equipment. It is also combined with Chlorhexidine for skin preparation before procedures, and with other ingredients in hand gels and some ear drops.
How It Works
It damages the proteins and outer layers of bacteria and many viruses, killing them quickly. It works best at a strength of about 60 to 80 percent in water.
Dosage and Administration
For skin: apply with a clean cotton swab and let it dry completely before an injection or procedure. As a hand rub: use enough to cover all surfaces of the hands and rub until dry, about 20 to 30 seconds. Do not use on open wounds. Never swallow it.
Interactions
No important interactions with medicines when used on the skin. Do not mix with bleach or other cleaning chemicals, as harmful gases can form.
Contraindications
Do not use on open wounds, broken or badly irritated skin, the eyes, inside the nose or mouth, or other mucous membranes. Do not use if you are allergic to it.
Side Effects
Dryness, stinging, redness or cracking of the skin, especially with frequent use. Get urgent medical help if it is swallowed (it can cause drowsiness, vomiting, confusion and breathing problems), if large amounts are inhaled, or for a severe skin reaction. If it splashes into the eyes, rinse with clean running water for at least 15 minutes and seek medical advice.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Normal use on the skin is considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Precautions and Warnings
Highly flammable: keep away from flames, cigarettes and heat, and let it dry fully before using electrical or heated equipment. Use in a well-ventilated place. Do not use on large areas of a baby's skin or cover it with a tight dressing, as it can be absorbed. It does not clean visible dirt; wash hands with soap and water when they are dirty. Keep it where children cannot reach it.
Overdose
Swallowing it or breathing in large amounts is an emergency: it can cause drunkenness, vomiting, stomach pain, low blood pressure, slow breathing and coma. Go to hospital straight away; do not make the person vomit.
Therapeutic Class
Antiseptic and disinfectant.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a tightly closed container, away from heat, sparks, open flames and light, 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.
All brands of Isopropyl Alcohol