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Acetic Acid


Pronunciation

 (a SEE tik AS id)


U.S. Brand Names

 VoSol®


Synonyms

 Ethanoic Acid


Generic Available

 Yes


Use

 Irrigation of the bladder; treatment of superficial bacterial infections of the external auditory canal


Pregnancy Risk Factor

 C


Contraindications

 Hypersensitivity to acetic acid or any component of the formulation; during transurethral procedures


Warnings/Precautions

 Not for internal intake or I.V. infusion; topical use or irrigation use only; use of irrigation in patients with mucosal lesions of urinary bladder may cause irritation; systemic acidosis may result from absorption


Adverse Reactions

 <1%: Systemic acidosis, urologic pain, hematuria


Dosage

Irrigation (note dosage of an irrigating solution depends on the capacity or surface area of the structure being irrigated):

For continuous irrigation of the urinary bladder with 0.25% acetic acid irrigation, the rate of administration will approximate the rate of urine flow; usually 500-1500 mL/24 hours

For periodic irrigation of an indwelling urinary catheter to maintain patency, about 50 mL of 0.25% acetic acid irrigation is required

Otic: Insert saturated wick; keep moist 24 hours; remove wick and instill 5 drops 3-4 times/day


Administration

 Not for internal intake or I.V. infusion; topical use or irrigation use only


Nursing Implications

 For continuous or intermittent irrigation of the urinary bladder, urine pH should be checked at least 4 times/day and the irrigation rate adjusted to maintain a pH of 4.5-5


Dental Health: Effects on Dental Treatment

 No significant effects or complications reported


Dental Health: Vasoconstrictor/Local Anesthetic Precautions

 No information available to require special precautions


Mental Health: Effects on Mental Status

 None reported


Mental Health: Effects on Psychiatric Treatment

 None reported


Dosage Forms

Solution for irrigation: 0.25% (250 mL, 500 mL, 1000 mL)

Solution, otic (V Sol®): 2% [in propylene glycol] (15 mL)


References

Kawamata M, Fujita S, and Mayumi T, "Acetic Acid Intoxication by Rectal Administration," J Toxicol Clin Toxicol , 1994, 32(3):333-6.

Penner GE, "Acid Ingestion: Toxicology and Treatment," Ann Emerg Med , 1980, 9(7):374-9.


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