Usage
Phenoxyethanol is primarily used as a preservative in cosmetic products, perfumes, and soaps. It is also used as a preservative in some vaccines and medications. It is not typically prescribed as a standalone medication for treating medical conditions. Its pharmacological classification is as a preservative with antibacterial and antifungal properties. Its mechanism of action involves disrupting the cell walls of bacteria and fungi, leading to cell death. It is occasionally used in topical pharmaceutical formulations.
Alternate Names
- 2-Phenoxyethanol
- Ethylene glycol monophenyl ether
- PhE
- Dowanol
- Arosol
- Phenoxetol
- Rose ether
- Phenoxyethyl alcohol
- Beta-hydroxyethyl phenyl ether
- Euxyl K® 400 (mixture of Phenoxyethanol and 1,2-dibromo-2,4-dicyanobutane)
How It Works
Pharmacodynamics: Phenoxyethanol acts as a broad-spectrum antimicrobial agent, effective against various Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria, yeasts, and molds. It disrupts the cell wall of microorganisms, causing leakage of intracellular components and ultimately cell death.
Pharmacokinetics: When applied topically, phenoxyethanol is absorbed through the skin, with estimates ranging from 47% to 85% absorption. It is metabolized primarily in the liver to phenoxyacetic acid, which is then excreted in the urine. A small amount may be excreted unchanged in the urine or exhaled.
Mode of Action: Phenoxyethanol’s primary mode of action involves disrupting the lipid bilayer of the cell membrane of microorganisms, affecting membrane permeability and causing cell lysis.
Receptor Binding/Enzyme Inhibition/Neurotransmitter Modulation: The primary mechanism of action is not related to receptor binding, enzyme inhibition or neurotransmitter modulation.
Elimination Pathways: Primarily renal excretion, following hepatic metabolism to phenoxyacetic acid. A small percentage may also be excreted unchanged in the urine or exhaled.
Dosage
Phenoxyethanol is not typically prescribed as a standalone medication, therefore standard dosage guidelines for treating medical conditions do not exist. As a preservative in cosmetics and personal care products, the typical concentration used is 0.5% to 1%. Higher concentrations may be used in other applications.
Standard Dosage
This section is not applicable as phenoxyethanol is not a prescribed medication.
Adults:
Not applicable
Children:
Not applicable
Special Cases:
Not applicable.
Clinical Use Cases
Limited clinical use in topical pharmaceutical formulations.
Dosage Adjustments
Not applicable.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects
Skin irritation, redness, rash, eczema (especially in individuals with pre-existing skin conditions or allergies).
Rare but Serious Side Effects
Anaphylaxis (rare but potentially life-threatening allergic reaction), contact dermatitis.
Long-Term Effects
Potential for chronic skin irritation with prolonged exposure in sensitive individuals.
Adverse Drug Reactions (ADR)
Anaphylaxis, severe contact dermatitis
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to phenoxyethanol.
- Use on infants, especially in the diaper area, due to potential for CNS depression.
- Use during pregnancy and breastfeeding (precautionary measure).
Drug Interactions
May enhance the central nervous system depressant effects of certain medications, such as some antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, and opioid pain relievers. Consult drug interaction databases for detailed interactions with specific medications.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Avoid use during pregnancy and breastfeeding as a precautionary measure, due to limited safety data and potential for adverse effects on infants.
Drug Profile Summary
- Mechanism of Action: Disrupts cell walls of microorganisms, leading to cell death.
- Side Effects: Skin irritation, allergic reactions, rarely anaphylaxis.
- Contraindications: Hypersensitivity, infants, pregnancy/breastfeeding.
- Drug Interactions: May enhance CNS depression with certain medications.
- Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Avoid use.
- Dosage: Used as a preservative, not a prescribed medication.
- Monitoring Parameters: Monitor for signs of skin irritation or allergic reaction.
Popular Combinations
Not applicable as phenoxyethanol is a preservative, not a prescribed medication.
Precautions
- General Precautions: Always perform a patch test before using products containing phenoxyethanol, especially for those with sensitive skin.
- Specific Populations: Avoid use in infants, pregnant women, and breastfeeding mothers.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q1: What is the recommended dosage for Phenoxyethanol?
A: Phenoxyethanol is used as a preservative in cosmetics and personal care products, typically at a concentration of 0.5% to 1%. It’s not a medication with prescribed dosages.
Q2: Is phenoxyethanol safe for use in cosmetics?
A: Generally considered safe at concentrations up to 1% in cosmetic products for adults. However, it can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions in some individuals.
Q3: Can phenoxyethanol be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
A: As a precaution, it’s best to avoid using products containing phenoxyethanol during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Q4: How does phenoxyethanol work as a preservative?
A: It disrupts the cell walls of microorganisms, preventing their growth and extending the shelf life of the product.
Q5: What are the signs of an allergic reaction to phenoxyethanol?
A: Skin rash, hives, itching, redness, swelling, difficulty breathing.
Q6: What should I do if I experience an allergic reaction to phenoxyethanol?
A: Discontinue use of the product immediately and consult a healthcare professional if symptoms are severe.
Q7: Is phenoxyethanol an endocrine disruptor?
A: While not officially classified as an endocrine disruptor, some evidence suggests it may have endocrine-disrupting potential. More research is needed.
Q8: Are there natural alternatives to phenoxyethanol in cosmetics?
A: Some natural preservatives are used, but they may not be as effective broad-spectrum preservatives.
Q9: Is phenoxyethanol safe for the environment?
A: Considered biodegradable and relatively safe for the environment.
Q10: What is the difference between phenoxyethanol and phenoxyethyl alcohol?
A: They are the same chemical compound. Phenoxyethyl alcohol is another name for phenoxyethanol.
