Skip to main content

Denatured Alcohol

Generic name: ethanol topicalETH-a-nol-TOP-i-kal ]
Brand names: Denatured Alcohol, Nozin, Nozin POPswab, Lavacol
Drug class: Antiseptic and germicides

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Aug 9, 2023. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is Denatured Alcohol?

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

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

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

Denatured Alcohol may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Denatured Alcohol side effects

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

Less serious side effects may be more likely, and you may 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 may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

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 Denatured Alcohol if you are allergic to it.

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

Ask a doctor or pharmacist if Denatured Alcohol 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 Denatured Alcohol 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 Denatured Alcohol?

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 Denatured Alcohol without help from an adult.

Store at cool room temperature away from moisture and heat.

Denatured 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 Denatured Alcohol is used when needed, you may not be on a dosing schedule. Skip any missed dose if it's almost time for your next dose. Do not use two doses at one time.

What happens if I overdose?

An overdose of ethanol topical is not expected to be dangerous. Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222 if anyone has accidentally swallowed the medication.

What should I avoid while using Denatured Alcohol?

Avoid getting Denatured Alcohol in your eyes or deep inside your nose.

What other drugs will affect Denatured Alcohol?

Medicine used on the skin is not likely to be affected by other drugs you use. But many drugs can interact with each other. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all medicines you use, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Betadine, ethanol topical, iodine topical, Clinidine, silver nitrate topical, povidone iodine topical

More about Denatured Alcohol (ethanol topical)

Patient resources

Other brands

Nozin, Lavacol, Nozin POPswab

Professional resources

Other brands

Avant Original Fragrance Free

Related treatment guides

Further information

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.

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