Dettol Asl Liq 1 Ltr

Dettol Antiseptic Liquid

Dettol Antiseptic Liquid, often referred to as Dettol ASL, is a widely recognized antiseptic and disinfectant solution manufactured by Reckitt. It is available in various sizes, including the 1-liter bottle, and is known for its distinctive pine fragrance.

Composition The primary active ingredient in Dettol Antiseptic Liquid is Chloroxylenol, typically at a concentration of 4.8% w/v. Other components include pine oil (which contains d-limonene and benzyl alcohol), isopropanol (isopropyl alcohol), castor oil, caramel as a colorant, and water.

Uses Dettol Antiseptic Liquid serves multiple purposes in both medical and household settings. It is primarily used for:

• Antiseptic Wound Cleansing: For minor cuts, grazes, bites, and insect stings to prevent infection.
• Personal Hygiene: Can be added to bath water for antiseptic skin cleansing and is sometimes used for conditions like dandruff, spots, and pimples.
• Household Disinfection: To kill bacteria and germs on surfaces, floors, tiles, and in laundry. It is effective against a wide range of bacteria and can kill up to 100 illness-causing germs, including some viruses like the COVID-19 virus.

Dosage and Administration Dettol Antiseptic Liquid is for external use only and must always be diluted before use, except for urgent application on minor wounds, though not recommended for sensitive skin.

• Antiseptic Wound Cleansing: Dilute one tablespoonful (approximately 15ml) in half a pint (around 300ml) of warm water. Apply to the affected area and cover with a dry dressing.
• Bathing: Add 1-2 capfuls (5-10ml) to bath water.
• Dandruff: One tablespoonful diluted in one pint of warm water. Saturate hair and scalp for 10 minutes, then shampoo.
• Spots and Pimples: Bathe the affected area daily with one tablespoonful diluted in half a pint of warm water (not for eczematous conditions).
• Surface Disinfection: Dilute 50 ml (4 capfuls) in 1 litre of water for surface cleaning.

Side Effects When used as directed and diluted, Dettol Antiseptic Liquid generally has no major side effects. Minor side effects may include skin irritation, redness, dryness, itching, or a stinging sensation on the skin, especially for individuals with sensitive skin. However, serious side effects can occur if ingested or used undiluted. Ingestion can cause corrosive burns to the oral mucosa, larynx, and gastrointestinal tract, leading to symptoms like bradycardia, hypotension, renal failure, and central nervous system depression. Pulmonary aspiration can result in pneumonia, acute respiratory distress syndrome, and can be fatal. Allergic reactions to chloroxylenol are rare but possible.

Precautions

• External Use Only: Do not swallow, inhale, or inject.
• Dilution: Always dilute the product before use; applying undiluted Dettol to skin can cause severe irritation or chemical burns.
• Avoid Contact: Do not use around eyes, ears, nose, or mouth. If contact occurs, wash thoroughly with cold water and seek medical advice.
• Eczematous Conditions: Not for use on eczematous skin.
• Hypersensitivity: Avoid use if hypersensitive to chloroxylenol or any other excipients.
• Children and Pets: Keep out of reach and sight of children and pets. It is toxic to many animals, especially cats.
• Accidental Ingestion: If accidentally swallowed, wash out the mouth and drink plenty of water or milk, then seek immediate medical attention.

Storage Store Dettol Antiseptic Liquid in its original container, protected from direct sunlight, in a dry, cool, and well-ventilated area, at a temperature not exceeding 30°C. Keep the container tightly closed and sealed when not in use, and ensure it is kept out of reach of children.

Here are the most frequently asked questions about DETTOL Antiseptic Liquid:

What is DETTOL Antiseptic Liquid used for?

DETTOL Antiseptic Liquid is a concentrated solution primarily used as an antiseptic for preventing infection in minor wounds such as cuts, bites, grazes, and insect stings. It also functions as a household disinfectant for cleaning surfaces and can be added to bath water for personal hygiene. It helps protect against various germs that can cause infection and illness.

How does DETTOL Antiseptic Liquid work?

The active ingredient in DETTOL Antiseptic Liquid is Chloroxylenol (C8H9ClO), which makes up 4.8% of the admixture. Chloroxylenol is a substituted phenol known for its bactericidal properties, effectively killing a wide range of gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, as well as some fungi and viruses. It works by disrupting the cell membrane of bacteria, allowing their contents to leak out and hindering their functions.

What is the usual dosage and how should it be used?

DETTOL Antiseptic Liquid should always be diluted before use and is for external application only.

• For antiseptic wound cleansing (cuts, grazes, bites, insect stings): Dilute 1 part Dettol to 20 parts water. For example, wash the affected area with one tablespoonful (12.5 ml or 15ml) of Dettol diluted in a half-pint (approximately 270-300 ml) of water. Cover with dry gauze or lint.
• For personal hygiene (bathing): Add 1 to 2 capfuls (e.g., 30ml) of Dettol to bath water.
• For surface disinfection: Dilute 50 ml (4 capfuls) in 1 litre of water, or 20 ml in 100 ml of water, apply to the surface, and leave for 3-5 minutes before wiping.

What are the possible side effects?

When used as directed and diluted, Dettol Antiseptic Liquid typically has no major side effects. However, minor side effects can include skin irritation, a stinging sensation, or allergic reactions such as skin sensitisation, discolouration, or contact dermatitis. Using the liquid undiluted on the skin can cause severe chemical burns.

Is it safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Dettol Antiseptic Liquid can generally be used safely during pregnancy when used as recommended for external purposes, as systemic exposure from topical use is negligible. However, application of the product to the breast is not recommended during breastfeeding, as it is unknown if chloroxylenol or its metabolites are excreted in human milk, posing a potential risk to infants.

What precautions should be taken?

• Always dilute Dettol Antiseptic Liquid before use.
• It is for external use only and should not be swallowed.
• Avoid contact with eyes, ears, nose, or mouth. If contact occurs, wash thoroughly with cold water and consult a doctor.
• Do not use on eczematous conditions or if you are allergic to Chloroxylenol or any other ingredients.
• Keep out of the sight and reach of children and pets.
• Do not use on large areas of the body or on sensitive skin.
• Not recommended for use on children under 1 year of age.

What happens if DETTOL Antiseptic Liquid is accidentally swallowed?

Accidental or intentional ingestion of Dettol Antiseptic Liquid is a life-threatening medical emergency. It can cause severe corrosive burns to the mouth, throat, esophagus, and stomach, leading to intense pain, difficulty swallowing, and vomiting. It can also result in central nervous system depression, respiratory distress, and potential organ damage. If swallowed, wash out the mouth and drink plenty of water or milk, and seek immediate medical advice. Do not induce vomiting unless instructed by medical personnel.

Can it be taken with other medications or mixed with other chemicals?

DETTOL Antiseptic Liquid is not meant for internal use, so interactions with other oral medications are not applicable. However, it should not be mixed with other detergents or chemicals, as this can potentially release harmful chemical fumes or affect its efficacy. Chloroxylenol has also been reported to be incompatible with nonionic surfactants and methylcellulose.

How should DETTOL Antiseptic Liquid be stored?

DETTOL Antiseptic Liquid should be stored at room temperature (below 25 °C) in a cool, dry place, protected from direct sunlight, and in its original container. Keep the container tightly closed and sealed when not in use, and ensure it is out of the reach of children and pets.