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 (VSol): 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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