Monograph: |
Phenyl ethyl Alcohol
A colourless liquid with a rose-like odour. Soluble I in 60 of
water, I in less than I of alcohol, chloroform, ether, benzyl
benzoate, and diethyl phthalate: slightly soluble in liquid par-
affin; very soluble in glycerol, propylene glycol and fixed-
oils. Store in a cool. dry place in airtight containers. Protect
from light,
Incompatible with oxidising agents and proteins. Activity
may be reduced by nonionic surfactants or by adsorption onto
low density polyethylene containers.
Phenyl ethyl alcohol is more active against Gram-negative than
Cram-positive bacteria. It is used as a preservative i n ophthal-
mic and parenteral solutions at a concentration of 0.25 to
0.5%, in conjunction with another bactericide, and up to I %
in topical preparations. It is also used as an antiseptic in typi
cal products in concentrations of up to 7.5%. It is also used as
a component of flavouring essences and perfumes.
Phenyl ethyl alcohol may cause eye irritation.
Antimicrobial activity may be enhanced by the addition of
Phenyl ethyl alcohol to solutions preserved with benzalkonium
chloride, chlorhexidine acetate, phenylmercuric nitrate, chlo-
rocresol, or chlorbutol.
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