Cresol

Synonyms:  Cresylic acid; cresylol; hydroxytoluene; tricresol.

Description:Cresol consists of a mixture of cresol isomers, predominantly mcresol, and other phenols obtained from coal tar or petroleum. It is a colorless, yellowish to pale brownish-yellow, or pink-colored liquid, with a characteristic odor similar to phenol but more tarlike. An aqueous solution has a pungent taste.

Chemical Name: Methylphenol

Antimicrobial preservative; disinfectant.

• Antimicrobial preservative; disinfectant.

Cresol has been reported to be incompatible with chlorpromazine. Antimicrobial activity is reduced in the presence of nonionic surfactants.

Reports of adverse reactions to cresol are generally associated with the use of either the bulk material or cresol-based disinfectants, which may contain up to 50% cresol, rather than for its use as a preservative. However, a recent case of cutaneous hypersensitivity reaction to the m-cresol component of an insulin formulation detected via intradermal and patch testing has been reported. Cresol is similar to phenol although it is less caustic and toxic. However, cresol is sufficiently caustic to be unsuitable for skin and wound disinfection. In studies in rabbits, cresol was found to be metabolized and excreted primarily as the glucuronide

Observe normal precautions appropriate to the circumstances and quantity of material handled. Cresol may be irritant to the skin, eyes, and mucous membranes. Eye protection, gloves, and a respirator are recommended.

Chlorocresol; m-cresol; o-cresol; p-cresol; phenol.