From Handwiki ![]() Chemical formula of acetic acid | |
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| Pronunciation | a-SEE-tik |
| Trade names | Acetasol, Vasotate, Domeboro Otic, others |
| Other names | Vinegar |
| AHFS/Drugs.com | Monograph |
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| Routes of administration | ear drops, irrigation, by mouth |
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| Formula | C2H4O2 |
| Molar mass | 60.052 g·mol−1 |
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Acetic acid, which at low concentrations is known as vinegar, is an acid used to treat a number of conditions.
As an eardrop it is used to treat infections of the ear canal.[1] It may be used with an ear wick.[2] As a liquid it is used to flush the bladder in those who have a urinary catheter in an attempt to prevent infection or blockage.[3] As a gel it may be used to adjust the pH of the vagina.[4] It may also be applied to the cervix to help detect cervical cancer during screening.[5]
Side effects may include burning at the site of application.[6] Allergic reactions may rarely occur.[6] Use is not recommended in the ear in people who have a hole in the eardrum.[7] It works against both bacterial and fungal causes of external ear infections.[7]
Acetic acid has been used medically since the time of Ancient Egypt.[8][9] It is on the World Health Organization's List of Essential Medicines.[10] Acetic acid is more commonly used for external ear infections in the developing world than the developed.[11]
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Categories: [World Health Organization essential medicines] [Wikipedia medicine articles ready to translate]