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Ethanol topical

Generic name: ethanol topical

Brand names: Denatured Alcohol, Nozin, Nozin POPswab, Lavacol, Alcare Plus, Instant Hand Sanitizer

Used for infection
Last updated November 2, 2026 0 views
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What is ethanol topical?

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

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

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

Ethanol topical may also be used for reasons not mentioned in this medication guide.

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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 a swab into your nose beyond the 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.

This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.

Warnings

Follow all instructions on your medicine label and package. Inform each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you are taking.

This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.

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.

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Ethanol topical side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

You may experience less serious side effects, which are more likely, and you might have none at all.

This is not a complete list of side effects, and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You can report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

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What happens if I miss a dose?

Since ethanol topical is used as needed, you may not have a regular dosing schedule. If you miss a dose and it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not use two doses at the same time.

This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.

What happens if I overdose?

An overdose of ethanol topical is not likely to be harmful. Get emergency medical help or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222 if someone has accidentally swallowed the medication.

Do not get ethanol topical in your eyes or deep inside your nose.

This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.

What other drugs will affect ethanol topical?

Medicine applied to the skin is not likely to be influenced by other medications you take. However, many medications can interact with each other. Inform all your healthcare providers about all the medicines you use, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.

Related medicines

Before you take this medicine: the information on this page is general and may not cover your personal circumstances. Read the label supplied with your medicine and ask a pharmacist or doctor if you are unsure, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking other medicines or managing a long-term condition.
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Content is provided for education and is not medical advice. See our medical disclaimer.