TCP (antiseptic)

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200ml TCP bottle

TCP is a mild antiseptic, produced and sold in the United Kingdom by Pfizer. The brand name comes from its chemical name, which is Trichlorophenylmethyliodosalicyl (not to be confused with Trichlorophenol, a common fungicide). The liquid form of TCP is one of the most well-known brands of antiseptic in the UK, and its distinctive sweet, medicinal odour can be identified by many as the generic smell of antiseptic.

1 Forms
2 Uses
3 Precautions
4 Ingredients
5 See also
6 References
7 External links

[edit] Forms

TCP is available in 50 ml, 100 ml, 200 ml and 500 ml bottles as a clear yellow liquid. It is also available as a cream and as throat lozenges.

[edit] Uses

Note: Wikipedia is not a doctor. If symptoms persist, consult a physician.

The instructions on the TCP bottle say that TCP can be used on the following conditions:

Sore throats - Gargle a solution of TCP with 5 parts water twice a day. Do not swallow.
Mouth ulcers - Dab undiluted three times a day.
Cuts, grazes, bites and stings - Dilute 1 part TCP with 1 part water and apply freely. (TCP may be used undiluted in an emergency).
Boils, spots and pimples - Dab undiluted once every four hours.

TCP can also be used as a mouthwash when diluted, and can also be used as a general disinfectant. Certain sources[1] suggest that when diluted it can be used as a vaginal douche, although the safety of this has not been fully ascertained.

[edit] Precautions

Care should be taken not to swallow large amounts of TCP as it may have an adverse effect on the kidneys. However, swallowing tiny amounts will probably be harmless. If you start to feel unwell after using TCP, see a medical practitioner immediately. TCP should not be used on cats, as its phenol content makes it toxic to felines.^[1]

[edit] Ingredients

TCP Liquid's active ingredients are halogenated phenols and phenol. (One source says each mL of TCP antiseptic contains, Chlorinated Phenols 6,0 mg; Phenol 1,75 mg; Iodinated Phenols 0,95 mg; Sodium Salicylate 0,5 mg.[2]) It also contains glycerol, concentrated phosphoric acid, E104 (quinoline yellow) and water.