Generic
Isopropyl alcohol
2 brands available in the market
At a glance
Isopropyl alcohol is an antiseptic used for the disinfection of clean and intact skin, including pre-operative surgical hand disinfection and hand disinfection prior to aseptic procedures.
Description
Isopropyl alcohol (also known as isopropanol or IPA) is the most common and widely used disinfectant within pharmaceutics, hospitals, cleanrooms, and electronics or medical device manufacturing. It is a colorless, flammable chemical compound with a strong odor. 70% Isopropyl Alcohol is generally more effective at killing microorganisms and better tolerated than soap and water.
Indications
- Disinfection of clean and intact skin
- Pre-operative surgical hand disinfection
- Hand disinfection prior to aseptic procedures
- Hand disinfection after handling contaminated materials
- Disinfection of patients' skin prior to surgery or invasive procedures
Therapeutic class
Other antibacterial preparation
Pharmacological class
Antiseptic (Isopropyl Alcohol)
Pharmacology
Isopropyl Alcohol is an isomer of propyl alcohol with antibacterial properties. Although the exact mechanism of isopropanol's disinfecting action is not known, it might kill cells by denaturing cell proteins and DNA, interfering with cellular metabolism, and dissolving cell lipo-protein membranes. 70% isopropyl alcohol solution kills microorganisms by dissolving plasma membrane of the cell wall.
Mechanism of action
Kills microorganisms by denaturing cell proteins and DNA, interfering with cellular metabolism, and dissolving cell membranes.
Dosage
Adult Dose (Topical):
- Squeeze thumbnail size amount in your palm
- Briskly rub hands together until dry
- Use as often as required
Administration
For external use only; squeeze thumbnail size amount in palm; rub hands together until dry; follow WHO recommended 7 steps; avoid contact with eyes; discontinue if skin irritation occurs.
Missed dose
Not applicable (topical disinfectant).
Side effects
Side Effects:
- Inhaling large amounts may cause nausea, vomiting, irritation of nose and mucous membranes, throat irritation, difficulty breathing
- May cause burning, stinging, or cold feeling where applied
Precautions & warnings
Precautions:
- Highly flammable; keep away from heat, sparks, or open flame
- For external use only
- Avoid eyes; if contact occurs, flush with water
- Discontinue use if skin irritation occurs
- Keep out of reach of children
- Wear protective clothing, safety gloves and goggles
Contraindications
Contraindications:
- Known hypersensitivity to isopropyl alcohol
Drug interactions
No significant drug interactions known (topical use).
Food interactions
No food interactions applicable (topical use).
Use in pregnancy
Use in Pregnancy: Generally safe due to topical use; however consult your doctor.
Use in lactation
Use in Lactation: Generally safe due to topical use; however consult your doctor.
Pediatric use
Safe for children; use under supervision.
Geriatric use
Safe for elderly; no specific precautions.
Renal / hepatic impairment
No specific data.
Overdose effects
Overdose not applicable (topical use); if large amount swallowed, seek emergency medical attention.
Storage conditions
Store in a tightly closed container in a cool & dry place, protected from light, well-ventilated area; keep away from all possible ignition sources; keep out of reach of children.
Chemical structure
Isopropyl Alcohol