isopropyl alcohol (topical)
What is the most important information I should know about isopropyl alcohol?
Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor.
What is isopropyl alcohol?
Isopropyl alcohol kills or prevents the growth of bacteria on the skin.
Isopropyl alcohol topical (for use on skin) is used to help prevent bacterial skin infections from minor cuts or scrapes. Isopropyl alcohol is used in healthcare settings to prevent infection that may be caused by needle punctures.
Isopropyl alcohol is also used as a topical rub to help relieve minor muscle pain.
Isopropyl alcohol may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using isopropyl alcohol?
Ask a doctor or pharmacist before using isopropyl alcohol on a deep puncture wound or a serious burn.
How should I use isopropyl alcohol?
Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor.
Do not take by mouth. Topical medicine is for use only on the skin.
Do not use on open wounds or on sunburned, windburned, dry, chapped, or irritated skin.
Rinse with water if this product gets in your eyes, nose, mouth, rectum, or vagina.
Apply a small amount of this product to your skin using a clean cotton ball, cotton swab, or cotton gauze. Throw away the cotton applicator and use a new piece of cotton if you need to apply more isopropyl alcohol.
To use isopropyl alcohol for sore muscles, apply a generous amount to the skin and rub in until the alcohol dries.
Do not allow a child to use this product without supervision.
Call your doctor if the condition you are treating with isopropyl alcohol does not improve, or if it gets worse while using isopropyl alcohol.
Store tightly closed at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.
Isopropyl alcohol is flammable. Do not use near high heat or open flame. Do not smoke until the medicine has completely dried on your skin.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Since isopropyl alcohol is used when needed, it does not have a regular dosing schedule.
What happens if I overdose?
Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222 if anyone has accidentally swallowed this product.
What should I avoid while using isopropyl alcohol?
Avoid using this medicine on open wounds or on sunburned, windburned, dry, or irritated skin.
Avoid getting this product in your eyes or mouth.
Isopropyl alcohol is not a substitute for other types of alcohol. Do not drink.
What are the possible side effects of isopropyl alcohol?
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Isopropyl alcohol may cause burning, stinging, or a cold feeling where the medicine is applied.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
What other drugs will affect isopropyl alcohol?
Medicine used on the skin is not likely to be affected by other drugs you use, but many drugs can interact. Tell your doctor about all your current medicines, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.
Where can I get more information?
Your pharmacist can provide more information about isopropyl alcohol.
Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.
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