This combination 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 a 70% solution of isopropyl alcohol acts as a disinfectant, killing all surface microorganisms. It is used to disinfect hands and equipment surfaces in pharmaceuticals.

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.

Isopropyl Alcohol is an isomer of propyl alcohol with antibacterial properties. Although the exact mechanism of isopropanol's disinfecting action is not known, it might kill cells by denaturing cell proteins and DNA, interfering with cellular metabolism, and dissolving cell lipo-protein membranes. Isopropanol is used in soaps and lotions as an antiseptic. A 70% isopropyl alcohol solution kills microorganisms by dissolving the plasma membrane of the cell wall.

Glycerol is used as a humectant, but other emollients may be used for skin care, provided that they are cheap, widely available, miscible in water and alcohol, and do not add to toxicity or promote allergy.

Hydrogen peroxide is used to inactivate contaminating bacterial spores in the solution and is not an active substance for hand antisepsis.

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-

• Apply product to the palm of one hand.
• Rub hands together.
• Rub the product over all surfaces of hands and fingers until hands are dry.

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 avoid any contact with skin), protective clothing should 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.

Bleaching and Disinfectants

Isopropyl alcohol should be stored in a tightly closed container in a cool & dry place, protected from light, in a well-ventilated area. Due to the chemical's extreme flammability, it must be kept away from all possible ignition sources, including heat, sparks, and flames. Keep out of reach of children.