Acetic Acid
Acetic acid is an antiseptic agent used primarily in gynecological applications to treat vaginal infections and restore normal vaginal pH. It works by creating an acidic environment that inhibits the growth of certain pathogenic microorganisms, making it effective against various vaginal conditions.
Acetic acid is a topical antiseptic used to treat vaginal infections by restoring acidic pH and inhibiting harmful bacteria.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- G01AD02
- RxNorm
- 168
- Generic
- Acetic Acid
- Class
- atc-g01
- Brands
- Mal-A-Ket, Fem pH, Relagard
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- vaginal, otic
- Forms
- gel, solution
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Dosage and administration
- Usual dose
- 500mg twice daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- every 12 hours
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 250mg twice daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- every 12 hours
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 400mg daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- once daily
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
Overdose information
Special Populations
8 groupspregnancy
first trimesteruse only if clearly needed
vaginal acetic acid preparations should be used during pregnancy only under healthcare provider supervision
regular prenatal check-ups
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pregnancy
second third trimesteruse only if clearly needed
continue under medical supervision
routine prenatal care
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
lactation
breastfeedingno adjustment needed
topical and vaginal use is generally considered safe during breastfeeding
no specific monitoring required
pediatric_age
children under 12use under medical supervision
acetic acid otic solution may be used in children for ear infections but dosage must be provider-directed
monitor for skin irritation
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
geriatric
elderly over 65no adjustment needed
standard dosing applies but consider skin sensitivity
monitor for local skin reactions
renal_impairment
mild to moderateno adjustment needed
minimal systemic absorption makes renal dosing unnecessary
standard monitoring
renal_impairment
severeno adjustment needed
not significantly metabolized or excreted renally
standard monitoring
hepatic_impairment
any severityno adjustment needed
not significantly metabolized by hepatic pathways
standard monitoring
Statistics and clinical data
Commonly prescribed since
General prescribing information for acetic acid vaginal preparations
Drug class
Drug class information for acetic acid products
Common uses
Common therapeutic uses for Mal-A-Ket, Fem pH, Relagard
Mechanism of action
Mechanism of action for acetic acid in vaginal applications
Used to treat bacterial vaginosis, trichomoniasis, and other vaginal infections. Also used as part of cervical cancer screening procedures (acetic acid test in colposcopy) to identify abnormal cervical cells.
Acetic acid works by lowering the vaginal pH to create an acidic environment that is inhospitable to pathogenic bacteria and organisms. This helps restore the natural balance of vaginal flora and inhibits the growth of harmful microorganisms.
For vaginal use only. Should be diluted before application to avoid tissue irritation. Not for use in pregnant women without medical supervision. May cause mild burning or irritation upon application. Consult a healthcare provider before use if symptoms do not improve.
Contraindications
Conditions and patient states where this medication should be avoided or used with caution.
Do not use (1)
Known allergy to this medication or its components
Use caution (1)
Consult healthcare provider for benefits vs risks assessment
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 24, 2026. · Read our editorial policy