D & M Robins Methylated Spirit Liquid (Ethyl Alcohol) — Uses, Dosage & NAFDAC

Who is this for?

What is this drug?

Ethyl alcohol (also called ethanol) is a type of alcohol used mainly as an antiseptic — it kills germs on the skin and surfaces by destroying bacteria and other microorganisms on contact.

What is it used for?

Cleaning woundsdisinfecting skin before injectionssterilizing medical instrumentshand sanitizationcleaning surfaces to kill germs

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Topical Antibiotics & Antiseptics Wound Care & Antiseptics

How it works

Denatures microbial proteins and disrupts cell membrane lipid bilayers through coagulation and dehydration, leading to rapid destruction of bacteria, viruses, fungi, and spores on skin and surfaces.

Available Over The Counter

Get this from any pharmacy or chemist — no prescription needed.

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How to take this drug

Ethyl alcohol is NOT meant to be swallowed. It is applied externally only. For wound cleaning, use a cotton wool soaked in the solution and gently dab on the affected area. For hand sanitization, rub a small amount between your palms until dry. Products like D & M Robins Methylated Spirit are commonly used this way in Nigeria.

What if I Miss a Dose?

This does not apply since ethyl alcohol is not taken as a regular scheduled medication. Simply use it whenever you need to clean a wound or disinfect skin.

What to watch out for

Never drink methylated spirit or any form of ethyl alcohol meant for external use — some people in Nigeria mix it into local drinks which is extremely dangerous and can kill. Keep it far away from fire, stoves, and candles as it catches fire very easily. Buy only from reputable pharmacies — avoid unmarked bottles from roadside sellers as the concentration may be wrong or mixed with dangerous chemicals like methanol.

Common Side Effects

Stinging or burning sensation when applied to broken skin
dryness or irritation of the skin
slight redness around the area where it was applied

Serious Side Effects

Severe allergic reaction such as swelling or difficulty breathing after skin application
serious chemical burns if applied to deep or large open wounds
poisoning symptoms like vomiting
confusion
or difficulty breathing if accidentally swallowed — rush to the hospital immediately.

Drug Interactions

Do not apply ethyl alcohol at the same time as other skin antiseptics like hydrogen peroxide as they may cancel each other out. If you are using any medicated cream or ointment on a wound, apply ethyl alcohol first and let it dry completely before using the cream.

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Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Warning

Safe for external use during pregnancy and breastfeeding, but never swallow it — drinking alcohol during pregnancy is very dangerous to the unborn baby.

Who Should NOT Take This

People with known allergy to ethyl alcohol
people with very deep or large open wounds (it can damage healing tissue)
anyone who might be tempted to drink it — methylated spirit and rubbing alcohol are poisonous if swallowed and can cause blindness or death.

How to Store

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat — this is very important in Nigeria's hot climate because ethyl alcohol is highly flammable and can catch fire easily. Keep the bottle tightly closed to prevent evaporation. Always keep far away from children, fire, and cooking areas.

For information only — not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.

D & M Robins Methylated Spirit