Eucalyptol
Listerine is a brand-name antiseptic mouthwash designed for daily oral hygiene use. It contains a combination of essential oils that work together to kill bacteria in the mouth, helping to reduce bad breath, plaque buildup, and gingivitis. This over-the-counter product is commonly used by adults and older children as part of their regular dental care routine.
Listerine is an antiseptic mouthwash used to reduce bad breath, plaque, and gingivitis by killing oral bacteria.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 1038905
- Generic
- Listerine
- Class
- brand-name
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- 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.
Listerine is used to combat bad breath (halitosis), reduce dental plaque formation, and help prevent or treat gingivitis (gum inflammation). It serves as an adjunct to regular brushing and flossing for comprehensive oral care.
Listerine works through its antiseptic properties, primarily from a combination of essential oils including eucalyptol, menthol, thymol, and methyl salicylate. These ingredients penetrate bacterial cell walls, disrupting their function and reducing the overall bacterial load in the oral cavity.
Listerine is for oral use only and should not be swallowed. It is generally recommended for adults and children over 12 years old. Some users may experience a burning sensation, which is normal. The product should be stored out of reach of children. Individuals with mouth ulcers or oral wounds may experience temporary discomfort.
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 July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy