KLIRE RUBBING ALCOHOL
ISOPROPYL
What it does
Isopropyl is commonly used in various topical applications for its antiseptic properties.
Commonly used for: skin disinfectant, cleaning agent, antiseptic for minor cuts and scrapes
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Sourcing - Kenya onlyRegistration & product details
Source: Food and Drugs Authority · fetched 2026-04-18 08:33:03 · updated 2026-09-25 04:00:07
About this medicine
Isopropyl is commonly used in various topical applications for its antiseptic properties.
What it treats
- skin disinfectant
- cleaning agent
- antiseptic for minor cuts and scrapes
How it works
Isopropyl works by killing bacteria and preventing infection when applied to the skin.
Who it's for
It is suitable for anyone needing a disinfectant for minor skin issues.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
Clinical monograph: isopropyl
BNF-referencedIsopropyl alcohol, also known as isopropanol or 2-propanol, is a colorless, flammable chemical compound with the molecular formula C3H8O. It is commonly used as a solvent, antiseptic, and disinfectant. Isopropyl alcohol has broad applications in medical, industrial, and household settings due to its effective antimicrobial properties and ability to dissolve a wide range of non-polar compounds.
Indications
- Antiseptic for skin disinfection
- Solvent in pharmaceutical formulations
- Cleaning agent in laboratories and healthcare settings
Dosage
Children: For pediatric use, consult specific guidelines in the BNF for Children, as dosing may vary based on age, weight, and clinical circumstances.
Adults: For skin antisepsis, apply isopropyl alcohol topically in a concentration of 70% to the affected area. Dosage may vary based on clinical indication and setting.
Mechanism of action
Isopropyl alcohol works primarily as an antiseptic by denaturing proteins and disrupting cell membranes of bacteria, viruses, and fungi, leading to cell lysis and death. Its efficacy is enhanced by the presence of water, which facilitates the penetration of the alcohol into microbial cells.
Pharmacodynamics
Isopropyl alcohol exhibits a rapid onset of action against a variety of pathogens, including gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, fungi, and some viruses. Its antimicrobial activity is concentration-dependent, with higher concentrations generally providing a broader spectrum of activity. It is commonly used in concentrations ranging from 60% to 90%, with 70% being optimal for disinfection due to its ability to penetrate the cell wall effectively.
Pharmacokinetics
Isopropyl alcohol is readily absorbed through the skin and mucous membranes. After absorption, it is metabolized primarily in the liver to acetone, which is then further metabolized and excreted, mostly via urine. The elimination half-life of isopropyl alcohol varies but is typically around 2 to 3 hours. Its effects can be influenced by factors such as dosage, route of exposure, and individual metabolic differences.
Pregnancy
Isopropyl alcohol should be used with caution during pregnancy. It is a category C drug, indicating that risk cannot be ruled out.
Breast-feeding
Caution is advised when using isopropyl alcohol during breastfeeding, as it is not known if it is excreted in human milk.
Storage
Isopropyl alcohol should be stored at room temperature, away from heat and flame. Keep the container tightly closed and in a well-ventilated area.
Formulations
- Isopropyl alcohol 70% solution
- Isopropyl alcohol 99% solution
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.
Molecular reference: isopropyl
PubChem CID 3776Molecular formula: C3H8O
Biological pathways
Source: PubChem (NCBI) · pathways from PathBank, Reactome, WikiPathways & PharmGKB.
This drug in other countries
The same active ingredient registered across other registries we cover - including different brands.