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Ethanol topical
  • Treatments
  • Topical Disinfection

Ethanol topical

Generic name: ethanol topical [ ETH-a-nol-TOP-i-kal ]
Brand names: Lavacol, Nozin, Nozin POPswab, Denatured Alcohol, Alcare Plus, Instant Hand Sanitizer
Dosage forms: topical liquid (70%; 95%); topical swab (62%)
Drug class:Antiseptic and germicides

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Mar 2, 2022. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is ethanol topical?

Ethanol (sometimes called rubbing alcohol) is an antiseptic that decreases bacteria on surfaces.

Ethanol topical (for use on skin) is used to help reduce the risk of Staph infection on the skin or around the nose.

Ethanol topical does not contain an antibiotic and should not be used in place of any other medications your doctor has prescribed.

Ethanol topical may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Warnings

Follow all directions on your medicine label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use ethanol topical if you are allergic to it.

You should not use ethanol topical in or around your nose if you have nasal bleeding or irritation.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist if ethanol topical is safe to use if you have ever had an allergy to foods or medicines.

Ask a doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. If you apply ethanol topical to your chest, avoid areas that may come into contact with the baby's mouth.

Do not use this medicine on a child younger than 2 years old without medical advice.

How should I use ethanol topical?

Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed.

Shake the Nozin bottle before each use. Do not touch the bottle tip to your nose or skin. Instead, drop the medicine onto a cotton swab and apply the medicine using the swab.

Apply this medicine only to the skin just inside your nostril. Do not place the a swab into your nose beyond swab tip.

Each Nozin POPswab is for one use only. Throw the swab away after one use.

Read and carefully follow any Instructions for Use provided with your medicine. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you do not understand these instructions.

Do not allow a child under 12 to use ethanol topical without help from an adult.

Store at cool room temperature away from moisture and heat.

Ethanol topical 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?

Sin...