Aluminum Acetate

Class: Astringents
VA Class: DE900
Chemical Name: Aluminum Acetate
Molecular Formula: C₆H₉AlO₆
CAS Number: 139-12-8
Brands: Domeboro, Gordon’s Boro-Packs, Pedi-Boro

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Apr 21, 2022. Written by ASHP.

Introduction

Topical astringent and antiseptic; aluminum salt.

Uses for Aluminum Acetate

Dermatologic Conditions

Used topically as self-medication (OTC use) for the temporary relief of minor skin irritations (e.g., insect bites; athlete’s foot; poison ivy, poison oak, or poison sumac; rashes due to soaps, detergents, cosmetics, or jewelry). Helps relieve itching and has a cooling and drying effect; particularly useful on wet or weeping lesions.

Used topically for the relief of swelling associated with minor bruises† and for reducing foot sweat†.

Aluminum acetate preparations also have been used topically for the relief of a variety of other skin-related conditions, such as eczema† , diaper rash† , acne† , and pruritus ani†.

Aluminum Acetate Dosage and Administration

Administration

Topical Administration

Apply aluminum acetate solution topically to the affected area of the skin as a wet dressing or compress or as a soak.

All commercially available aluminum acetate-containing preparations are for external use only. Avoid contact with eyes.

Keep out of reach of children; if ingested, immediately contact local poison control center.

Reconstitution of Powder for Topical Solution

Mix 1–3 packets of Domeboro Powder Packets, Gordon’s Boro-Packs, or Pedi-Boro Soak Paks in 16 ounces of water, preferably at cool or room temperature, to obtain modified Burow’s solution of buffered aluminum acetate in the following concentrations:

Do not dissolve topical powder in solutions other than water.

Do not strain or filter reconstituted solution.

The manufacturers of Gordon’s Boro-Packs and Pedi-Boro Soak Paks advise to shake well before use.

Prior to initial use, the manufacturer of Domeboro Powder Packets states that reconstituted solution may be divided into individual portions and stored for later application. (See Storage under Stability.)

Discard solution after each use. Once cloth has come into contact with skin, do not re-insert cloth into reconstituted solution for reuse.

Dilution of Topical Solution

Consult manufacturer’s product information or clinician for instructions on t...