Isopropyl Alcohol

Excipient (pharmacologically inactive substance)

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Feb 5, 2021.

What is it?

Isopropyl alcohol (C3H8O), also known as rubbing alcohol, is an alcoholic mixture intended for external use as an antiseptic; it usually contains 70% by volume of absolute alcohol or isopropyl alcohol; the remainder consists of water, denaturants, and perfume oils; used as a rubefacient for muscle and joint aches and pains.^[1]

Isopropyl alcohol 70% is used as an ingredient in alcohol swabs and alcohol wipes for wound cleaning, it is found in hand sanitizers, and in ear drops to prevent swimmer's ear. It may also be found in oral mouthwash solutions; it is important that isopropyl alcohol is not swallowed as it toxic and may be fatal in high enough quantities. Isopropyl alcohol can also be found in cleaning supplies, paint thinners and perfumes. In the pharmaceutical industry, isopropyl alcohol may be used in small, safe quantities in capsule or tablet manufacturing.^[1][2]

Top Medications with this excipient

• Amoxicillin trihydrate 500 mg
• Atazanavir Sulfate 300 mg
• Atorvastatin Calcium 40 mg
• Bupropion Hydrochloride Extended-Release (XL) 300 mg
• Cetirizine Hydrochloride 10 mg
• Dextroamphetamine Sulfate Extended Release 15 mg
• Duloxetine Hydrochloride Delayed-Release 60 mg
• Duloxetine Hydrochloride Delayed-Release 30 mg
• Gabapentin 300 mg
• Ketorolac Tromethamine 10 mg
• Mefenamic Acid 250 mg
• Nitrofurantoin (Monohydrate/Macrocrystals) 100 mg
• Omeprazole Delayed Release 20 mg
• Omeprazole Delayed Release 20 mg
• Omeprazole Delayed Release 40 mg
• Pantoprazole Sodium Delayed-Release 40 mg
• Tamsulosin Hydrochloride 0.4 mg
• Temazepam 30 mg
• Temazepam 15 mg
• Temodar Temozolomide 180 mg

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

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