Mentholated alcohol

Mentholated alcohol is available as a liquid solution for external use, packaged in bottles of various volumes, the most common being 40 g or 50 ml, fitted with a dropper or simple cap. 

The usual concentration is 1% menthol, dissolved in 96–100% ethyl alcohol, which allows for standardised and safe use when applied correctly.

1% mentholated alcohol is indicated in a wide range of clinical situations, both dermatological and otorhinolaryngological, and is valued for its broad spectrum of local action. For the skin, it is recommended as an antipruritic in conditions such as urticaria, allergic dermatitis and insect bites.

Furthermore, thanks to the antiseptic properties of ethyl alcohol, the product is used for local skin disinfection, in the treatment of superficial, uninfected lesions, or as an adjunct in skin hygiene. For the oropharyngeal mucosa, mentholated alcohol can be used as a gargle or for inhalation, acting as a local disinfectant.

Mentholated alcohol is for external use only, in accordance with the instructions for use and the appropriate dilution. For topical applications, the solution should be applied by dabbing or local application, once or several times a day, depending on need and skin tolerance. 

For inhalations or gargles, add a few drops of mentholated alcohol to a glass of water and use the resulting solution immediately. 

Mentholated alcohol is contraindicated in people with known hypersensitivity to menthol or ethyl alcohol, as well as in patients with extensive skin lesions, open wounds or severe burns, where the application of alcohol may cause severe irritation or delay healing.

The product is strictly contraindicated for internal use, as accidental ingestion may have toxic consequences, particularly in children.

It is recommended to avoid contact with the eyes and, in the event of accidental contact, to rinse the area thoroughly with water. 

In case of inhalation, it is recommended to avoid direct exposure to concentrated vapours, particularly in people suffering from bronchial asthma or bronchial hyperreactivity, where menthol may trigger bronchospasms.

Side effects associated with mentholated alcohol are generally rare and mild, occurring mainly locally. 

Skin irritation, a temporary burning sensation, erythema or excessive dryness of the skin may occur, especially with frequent application or on sensitive areas. Allergic reactions to menthol are rare but possible, and manifest as severe itching or skin rashes.

As mentholated alcohol is intended for external use, the risk of systemic drug interactions is minimal. 

However, concomitant application with other irritating topical products, such as iodine-based solutions, hydrogen peroxide or other concentrated antiseptics, may increase the risk of local irritation. 

Overdose is unlikely if the product is used correctly. 

Excessive application to large areas of skin may cause local irritation or severe dryness. Excessive inhalation of vapours may cause headache, dizziness or respiratory distress. In the event of accidental ingestion, urgent medical attention is required.

Mentholated alcohol must be stored away from light, at temperatures between 15 and 25 °C, in the original, tightly closed packaging. Keep out of the reach and sight of children and do not use after the expiry date stated on the packaging.

• PubMed, Alcohols for skin antisepsis in relevant clinical areas
• Wiley Online Library, Effect of alcohol-based virucidal hand sanitisers on skin barrier function — a randomised controlled trial
• PubMed, Impact of the use of alcohol-based hand sanitisers on the skin health of healthcare workers: a cross-sectional study
• Springer Nature Link, Safety assessment of topical ethanol application to the skin and oral cavity