Dettol Antiseptic Liquid: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Precautions and Alternates

Quick overview

Dettol Antiseptic Liquid is an over-the-counter antiseptic containing Chloroxylenol, Terpineol and alcohol. It is used, after dilution with water, to clean minor wounds and to disinfect skin and household surfaces. It works by reducing bacteria and some fungi on skin and surfaces. It is for external use only and must always be diluted before use.

What is Dettol Antiseptic Liquid

Dettol Antiseptic Liquid is an over-the-counter antiseptic liquid containing Chloroxylenol, Terpineol and alcohol. It is used to clean minor wounds and to disinfect skin and household surfaces when diluted with water.

Dettol Antiseptic Liquid uses

• Skin antiseptic for minor cuts, wounds, abrasions, insect bites and prickly heat
• Antiseptic cleansing of skin
• Household disinfection of floors, bathrooms, sinks, drains, laundry and surfaces (as directed)
• Cleaning minor cuts, wounds, burns, abrasions, and scrapes
• Disinfecting hard surfaces like floors and countertops
• Maintaining cleanliness during shaving and bathing
• Sanitising baby items, toys and fabrics
• First aid and laundry care

Benefits of Dettol Antiseptic Liquid

• Helps prevent infection in minor cuts and wounds
• Antiseptic cleansing for skin hygiene
• Helps reduce germs on household surfaces
• Useful for bathing dilution in prickly heat/itchy skin as directed
• Multipurpose disinfectant for home use

How Dettol Antiseptic Liquid works

Chloroxylenol is a broad-spectrum antiseptic ingredient that damages the outer walls and internal processes of germs, which reduces bacteria and some fungi on skin and surfaces. Terpineol and alcohol boost this germ-killing action and help with cleaning.

Dettol Antiseptic Liquid dosage

For external use only; always dilute before use. For minor wounds or cuts, add a small amount to water and use to clean the area. For bathing or hygiene use, dilute in a bucket of water. For household disinfection, dilute in water, apply to surfaces or floors, and let it sit before wiping. Do not use undiluted on skin. Do not swallow. Use as directed on the pack label or by your doctor.

Use exactly as prescribed by your doctor or pharmacist.

Available forms and strengths

• Liquid

Side effects of Dettol Antiseptic Liquid

Common

• Skin irritation
• Burning or stinging
• Redness
• Dryness
• Allergic rash
• Eye irritation (on contact)

Serious

• Rash
• Swelling of the face or lips
• Wheezing or difficulty breathing

Warnings and precautions

• Do not use undiluted on skin. Avoid contact with eyes, mouth and mucous membranes; if contact occurs, rinse with plenty of water.
• Do not swallow the product; if it is swallowed, seek medical help or contact poison control.
• Stop using it if irritation or an allergic reaction happens.
• Keep it away from children.
• Do not use on large or deep wounds, severe burns, or serious skin infections without medical advice.
• This product is flammable because it contains alcohol, so keep it away from heat and flames.
• For external use only. It is harmful if swallowed, and contact with eyes should be avoided.
• Generally considered safe when used externally and diluted as directed during pregnancy. Talk to a doctor if extensive use is needed.
• Never swallow Dettol Antiseptic Liquid while breastfeeding.
• For kidney concerns, use only according to the product label and recommended dilution.
• For liver concerns, do not use on deep wounds, severe burns, or large areas of damaged skin without medical advice.
• This product contains alcohol and is flammable. Drinking alcohol does not interact with it, but avoid using it near flames or heat.
• Keep away from children to prevent accidental ingestion.

Storage

• Store tightly closed at room temperature (below 30°C)
• Keep away from direct sunlight, heat and moisture
• Keep container upright and out of reach of children

When to see a doctor

• Stop using the product and get medical help right away if you develop a rash, swelling of the face or lips, wheezing, or difficulty breathing.
• If you suspect an overdose or accidental swallowing, contact a doctor or go to the nearest emergency department right away, and bring the pack with you.
• If it gets in the eyes, rinse thoroughly with plenty of water right away and get medical attention if irritation continues.

Alternatives

• Chlorhexidine Solution
• Hydrogen Peroxide
• Isopropyl Alcohol