Phenol
Phenol is a caustic agent used in medical settings for the destruction of tissue. In dermatology, it is utilized for procedures such as chemical peels and the treatment of certain skin conditions. It also has applications in pain management through nerve blocks.
Phenol is a caustic compound used for tissue destruction in dermatological procedures and pain management.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- unclassified
- RxNorm
- unknown
- Generic
- Phenol
- Class
- atc-c05
- Brands
- Chloraseptic Max Spray, Ulcerease, Unguentine Maximum Strength, Campho-Phenique, Cepastat, Mycinette Sore Throat Spray, Unguentine, Chloraseptic Spray, Castellani Paint, Ora Relief
- Availability
- otc
- Pregnancy
- C
- Lactation
- caution
- Half-life (h)
- 0
- Onset (min)
- 1
- Duration (h)
- 2
- Routes
- topical, otic, oral
- Forms
- spray, ointment, solution, paint, lozenge
- Regions
- US, CA, GB, AU, EU
- Monitoring
- none
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 trimesteravoid if possible
avoid use during pregnancy unless benefits outweigh risks
regular fetal monitoring
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
pregnancy
second trimesterminimize exposure
use only if clearly needed; avoid large areas of application
fetal growth monitoring if used
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pregnancy
third trimesterminimize exposure
avoid near term if possible; use minimal amounts if necessary
fetal monitoring
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
lactation
breastfeedingavoid
avoid topical phenol preparations while breastfeeding; may be excreted in breast milk
monitor infant for signs of toxicity
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
pediatric_age
young childrenuse with caution; avoid in infants
use only under medical supervision in children under 12; avoid application to large areas of skin or mucous membranes
monitor for signs of systemic absorption and toxicity
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
geriatric
elderlyuse lower concentrations; avoid extensive application
use with caution due to potentially increased skin permeability and reduced hepatic/renal function
monitor for systemic effects and organ function
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
renal_impairment
mild to moderateno major adjustment needed for topical use
use with caution; monitor renal function
periodic renal function monitoring
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
hepatic_impairment
moderateavoid extensive use
use with caution; phenol is metabolized in liver
monitor liver function tests
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
Statistics and clinical data
Commonly prescribed since
General prescribing information for phenol-based products
Drug class
Classification based on phenol's primary therapeutic action
Common uses
Common therapeutic uses in OTC products
Mechanism of action
How phenol exerts its antiseptic and anesthetic effects
Phenol is used for chemical skin peels, treatment of warts and other benign skin growths, and in some cases for nerve blocks to manage chronic pain conditions.
Phenol acts as a caustic agent that destroys tissue by coagulating proteins. It penetrates the skin layers causing controlled chemical injury that leads to tissue removal or restructuring.
Phenol should only be administered by trained healthcare professionals. It can cause significant tissue damage if misused. Systemic absorption may lead to toxicity affecting the heart, liver, and kidneys. Contraindicated in pregnancy and in patients with certain cardiac conditions.
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 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy