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Isopropyl alcohol also known as isopropanol or IPA, is the most common and widely used disinfectant within pharmaceutics, hospitals, cleanrooms, and electronics or medical device manufacturing. It is a colorless, flammable chemical compound with a strong odor. 70% Isopropyl Alcohol is generally more effective at killing microorganisms and better tolerated than soap and water.
This hand sanitizer is generally used to decrease infectious agents on the hands and is the most commonly used disinfectant in pharmaceutical industries. The important thing is that only 70% solution of isopropyl alcohol acts as a disinfectant killing all surface microorganisms. It is used to disinfect hands and equipment surface in pharmaceuticals.
Alcohol-based hand sanitizer is more convenient compared to hand washing with soap and water in most situations in the healthcare setting. It is generally more effective at killing microorganisms and better tolerated than soap and water. Alcohol-based hand sanitizer is recommended only if soap and water are not available. Using guideline is given bellow-
Isopropyl Alcohol is contraindicated in patients with known Hypersensitivity.
Inhaling large amounts of isopropyl alcohol can cause nausea, vomiting, irritation of the nose and mucous membranes, throat irritations, and even difficulty with breathing as coughing can occur making it difficult for you to catch your breath. Isopropyl alcohol may cause burning, stinging, or a cold feeling where the medicine is applied.
Isopropyl Alcohol is highly flammable in the presence of heat, sparks, or an open flame. When handling isopropyl alcohol in a work environment (to best to avoid any contact with skin) protective clothing should be always be worn, including safety gloves and goggles. Isopropyl alcohol should be kept away from heat, sparks, flames and other sources of ignition, as well as strong oxidizers, acetaldehyde, chlorine, ethylene oxide, acids, and isocyanates. A flammable safety cabinet is the best storage option.