Rivanolum

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Rivanolum

Treatment option: Abscess, Carbuncle, Furuncle

Medically reviewed

Marina Burgos

Last updated on 10/01/2026

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Rivanolum

Property Description
Active ingredient Ethacridine lactate (Monohydrate)
Form Cutaneous Solution, Ointment (Salbe)
Pharmacological class Antiseptic, Disinfectant (Acridine derivative)
Common use Local germ reduction on skin and mucous membranes
Origin Synthetic

What is Rivanolum and its Classification as an Antiseptic?

Rivanolum is the widely used name for a medicinal entity containing the active ingredient Ethacridine lactate (or Ethacridine lactate monohydrate), a substance categorized as a synthetic aromatic organic compound. This core substance defines the drug’s fundamental pharmacological class as an Antiseptic, Disinfectant, and Topical Anti-infective agent. Ethacridine lactate is classified under the Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical (ATC) system category D08AA01, grouping it specifically with other Acridine derivatives. As a monopreparation, its singular function is to provide microbial control externally, a property recognized for decades of use in wound hygiene.

The Composition and Available Pharmaceutical Forms

The composition of Rivanolum is centered exclusively on Ethacridine lactate, which is manufactured as a monopreparation and requires a base for its final form. It is available for topical/cutaneous administration in several common dosage forms, notably as a cutaneous solution and an ointment (Salbe). Ethacridine, as an acridine derivative, is primarily recognized for its anti-microbial properties when used topically. The solution form typically utilizes an aqueous base, which is necessary for creating the final diluted preparation, while the ointment incorporates a lipophilic base to provide an emollient covering suitable for localized external application, such as for minor scrapes or surface irritations.

General Purpose: Anti-microbial Action and Germ Reduction

The general purpose of Rivanolum is to achieve local germ reduction through effective anti-microbial activity by functioning as a bacteriostatic agent. This means the drug works by inhibiting the proliferation of pathogens, rather than rapidly destroying them, making it a slow-acting antiseptic. Its activity is directed against common Gram-positive bacteria, such as Staphylococci and Streptococci. This confirms the medicine is useful for slowing the growth of common surface bacteria, making it a practical choice for minor skin lesions or for general mucosal hygiene.

What side effects are possible with Rivanolum?

Possible side effects and safety information

The safety profile of Rivanolum (Ethacridine lactate) is defined by its role as a topical antiseptic. Regulatory documentation focuses primarily on local application-site effects and the chemical properties of the active substance.


Officially Documented Adverse Reactions

The adverse reactions documented in safety profiles are generally restricted to local application-site effects. The frequency of these local reactions is commonly classified in regulatory summaries as Not Known, as comprehensive frequency data for this type of topical agent may be unavailable.

  • System-Organ Classes Involved: The primary concerns are categorized under Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue Disorders and Eye Disorders, reflecting the direct contact upon application.
  • Expected Local Effects: Adverse events include skin irritation and the potential for sensitization by skin contact. Contact with the eye may result in serious eye irritation.

Safety-Related Constraints and Limitations

Official safety characteristics include specific constraints related to administration and the chemical nature of the active ingredient, an acridine derivative:

  • Administration: The product is mandated for External Use Only. No systemic serious adverse reactions are typically documented for this non-absorbed topical application.
  • Chemical Property: Ethacridine is a known dyestuff, which results in the non-pharmacological constraint of staining of skin, mucous membranes, and textiles. This characteristic is an important limitation noted in safety guidance.
  • Contraindication: Use is contraindicated in individuals with a known or suspected hypersensitivity to Ethacridine lactate or other related acridine derivatives.

No specific population-based restrictions or time-related patterns (e.g., associated with the start of treatment or long-term use) are universally defined across general regulatory safety data for topical use.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and When to Seek Help

Official regulatory documentation dictates the specific context under which Rivanolum (Ethacridine lactate) overexposure is considered a risk, as no case of overdose has been recorded when the product is used topically as recommended.


Overdose Scope and Risk Factors

The critical exposure scenario is accidental oral ingestion of the medicinal product. This route may pose a danger to health and life, an outcome officially attributed to the systemic toxicity of the excipient Boric Acid present in certain formulations, such as the tablets for solution. To avoid systemic over-exposure via the dermal route, the label mandates that the product must not be used on large surfaces of damaged skin. The toxic potential of the Boric Acid excipient is the basis for an official warning regarding the increased risk for children under 3 years old upon accidental ingestion.


Emergency Response Mandate

In the event of accidental oral ingestion, the official regulatory mandate is to immediately contact a doctor or seek urgent medical attention. Following this required emergency action, the label states that specific control tests or medical monitoring may be necessary to manage the resulting situation. No specific antidote is mentioned in the official regulatory documents.


Overdose Profile Summary

The overdose structure is defined as an acute, life-threatening ingestion emergency, contrasting with the low risk observed during compliant topical use. The official regulatory warnings primarily guide immediate help-seeking for accidental internal exposure rather than symptoms arising from topical application.

Therapeutic Uses of Rivanolum

What Rivanolum Treats: Main Uses and Benefits

The therapeutic role of Rivanolum (Ethacridine lactate) is defined by its use as a topical antiseptic for local microbial control and supportive hygiene. Ethacridine is categorized as an Anti-Infective Agent, Local, which supports its relevance in localized antiseptic applications.

This antiseptic is relevant for easing the symptoms associated with superficial wounds, cuts, and abrasions by focusing on local germ reduction at the site of injury. It is applied across conditions presenting with systemic or localized discomfort where the skin barrier is broken and a risk of contamination from common pathogens, such as Gram-positive bacteria, exists, which contributes to easing the risk of localized infection.

Common scenarios where supportive management with Rivanolum is considered relevant include conditions presenting with systemic or localized discomfort, such as venous leg ulcers, hygiene for post-surgical sites like episiotomy wounds, and the managing of minor bacterial skin infections. It may assist with managing related symptomatic manifestations such as local swelling and the presence of secretion or pus that can interfere with daily comfort.

“This medication supports the maintenance of a cleaner, drier environment that is relevant for supporting the natural healing process.”


Quick Fact: Relief for Localized Exudation The product may be part of symptomatic management for exudative (draining) manifestations often associated with minor skin lesions.

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Who can and cannot use Rivanolum?

The official eligibility profile for Rivanolum (Ethacridine lactate) is strictly defined by regulatory documentation concerning contraindications and use restrictions for topical antiseptics.


Eligibility Scope

Classification Eligibility Status (Regulatory Labeling)
Populations for whom use is allowed General adult population and children are eligible for external, localized antiseptic application.
Populations for whom use is not recommended Pregnant women and breastfeeding women are categorized as "Not Recommended" by regulators due to a documented lack of sufficient clinical safety data.
Populations for whom use is contraindicated Patients with known hypersensitivity or allergy to Ethacridine lactate or any other acridine derivative must not use the medicine.
Age-related eligibility rules Use in Adults and Children is generally permitted. Application in infants requires caution to limit the treated surface area and duration.
Condition-specific eligibility rules No specific restrictions based on internal conditions, such as severe hepatic or renal impairment, are documented for the standard topical forms.
Eligibility-related restrictions Use is strictly limited to external and localized application on the skin and mucous membranes; must not be applied to large areas or used for prolonged periods.

Connection to the Overall Eligibility Profile

The overall eligibility profile is structured by the absolute contraindication based on hypersensitivity to the acridine derivative class, which prohibits use in allergic patients. Standard use is permitted for the general adult and pediatric populations, provided the application remains strictly external and localized as stipulated in the regulatory label.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

The official regulatory profile for Ethacridine lactate (Rivanolum), a topical antiseptic, details interactions defined primarily by chemical incompatibility and local co-administration restrictions, reflecting its minimal systemic absorption.

Incompatible Substances and Loss of Efficacy

The antiseptic action of Ethacridine lactate is documented to be chemically weakened by concurrent use or mixture with specific chemical categories. These include oxidizing agents (such as hydrogen peroxide and potassium permanganate), mercury salts, and alkali metal halides (such as sodium chloride). Official labeling specifies that these substances must not be used simultaneously as they cause an antagonistic effect, which reduces the intended antiseptic efficacy.

Pharmacodynamic Interactions

A specific synergistic effect of action is officially documented to occur when Ethacridine lactate is co-administered with Tetracycline hydrochloride.

Co-administration Restrictions and Systemic Profile

A mandatory timing restriction applies to the use of other local medicines. The regulatory documents state that the simultaneous use of Ethacridine lactate with any other medicinal products applied locally (creams, solutions, or ointments) must be avoided. Consistent with its topical administration, the official labeling notes the absence of documented systemic drug-drug interactions, and no interactions involving CYP enzymes, drug transporters, food, or alcohol are specified.

Mechanism of Action

Bio-Molecular Antimicrobial Action

Rivanolum (Ethacridine Lactate) exerts its primary mechanism by intercalating into the bacterial DNA structure. As an acridine derivative, it positions itself between the nucleotide base pairs . This molecular engagement disrupts the DNA's structural integrity, impeding its function as a template for replication and transcription. This modification of early molecular steps prevents the synthesis of essential proteins and nucleic acids, leading to impaired cellular viability in microorganisms.


Uterine Smooth Muscle Modulation

A distinct, secondary mechanism involves the compound's effect on uterine tissues. Rivanolum engages signaling pathways that activate the contraction of uterine smooth muscle (myometrium). This is partly mediated through the regulation of calcium ion influx into the smooth muscle cells, as changes in intracellular calcium concentration are critical for muscle contraction. Additionally, it influences the release of local mediators, such as Prostaglandin F2alpha (PGF2alpha), which stimulates myometrial contractions. This modulation induces uterine smooth muscle contraction.

Dosage and Administration Information

Official Administration Guidelines for Rivanolum

The use of Rivanolum, which contains Ethacridine lactate, is established for its role as a topical antiseptic. The administration scope is centered on external application to the skin and mucous membranes.

Feature Guideline
Route of administration Topical (Cutaneous) application only.
Dosing schedule Application of the 0.1% concentration solution or ointment. The solution is typically used undiluted for general skin application but requires specific dilution ratios for rinses.
Frequency and duration Standard patterns recommend application 2 times daily for a defined, short-term course, often specified as up to 1 week.
Preparation requirements When preparing the solution from powder, it must be dissolved in lukewarm water. The 0.1% concentration is the established standard.
Age-group rules The product is approved for external use in Children and Adults without a change in the 0.1% concentration standard.
Special procedural conditions The application requires a minimum contact time (e.g., 30 minutes) to align with usage protocols. The solution causes a prominent yellow staining of skin and textiles, which is a known procedural constraint.

These official administration guidelines establish a clear, standardized use protocol. They define the required external route and the necessary 0.1% concentration for the medicine. The standardized twice-daily frequency and 1-week duration specify the exact schedule, ensuring the medicine is used within the time-bound framework and that the proper preparation steps are followed.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research Evidence / Overview of Studies for Rivanolum

Evidence for Use in Chronic Wounds

Research examining Rivanolum (Ethacridine lactate) as a topical agent for chronic wounds primarily focuses on venous leg ulcers. The available evidence landscape includes Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) and Systematic Reviews that have examined its application in this context. Research explored outcomes related to physical discomfort and changes in wound status by monitoring the percentage change in ulcer surface area. This research was evaluated in adults diagnosed with chronic venous leg ulceration.

Some trials reported measurements related to changes in ulcer size in the studied populations when compared to a non-active solution. However, the outcomes measured in these key studies were generally focused on short-term symptom patterns and early signs of change. What remains uncertain is the long-term impact of its application on the condition. The follow-up durations were limited in the primary research.


Research into Supportive Management of Superficial Skin Lesions

Research examining Rivanolum for minor surface lesions consists mainly of Case Reports and Case Series that observed its application in specific, localized lesions, such as severe extravasation injuries. These observational settings evaluated the condition by examining the lesion status and progression markers. Additionally, laboratory studies (in vitro) were conducted, and research measured the bacteriological effect on the growth of common Gram-positive bacteria (like Staphylococci and Streptococci) in controlled environments.

Controlled, comparative research from large-scale trials for most common superficial wounds is limited. Research is limited, and findings for the application across a wide range of common cuts and abrasions are based primarily on these smaller reports or laboratory findings.


Evidence Gaps and Areas of Uncertainty

The current body of evidence includes several identified research limitations. The extent of evidence is limited for several aspects of the medicine’s topical use, particularly regarding long-term outcomes and recurrence rates. Follow-up durations were limited in the trials that were conducted. Furthermore, comparative evidence is limited in some areas. Systematic reviews and expert assessments indicate a continued requirement for further good-quality research to fully contextualize the medicine’s role.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Rivanolum (FAQ)

Q: What is Rivanolum and how is it used?

A: Rivanolum is the common name for Ethacridine lactate (or acridinum, 6, 9-diamino-2-ethoxy-mono(2-hydroxypropanoas)). It is an antiseptic substance used topically to help disinfect skin and mucous membranes and to treat or prevent local infections.

It is often applied as a solution, ointment, or powder to:

  • Minor wounds, cuts, and abrasions.
  • Skin irritations or inflammations where infection might be present or a risk.
  • As a component of dressings or compresses for local treatment.

It works by interfering with the growth and reproduction of bacteria and some other microorganisms.


Q: Is Rivanolum safe for use on open wounds?

A: Rivanolum is an antiseptic specifically intended for topical use on the skin, including minor, clean open wounds like cuts, scrapes, and abrasions, to prevent or manage surface infection.

It should be used according to its preparation's instructions, typically as a dilute solution for cleansing or as an ingredient in a topical product.

  • Do not use it on deep puncture wounds, severe burns, or in body cavities unless explicitly directed by a healthcare professional.
  • If a wound is deep, large, or shows signs of a severe infection (like extensive redness, swelling, warmth, or discharge), consult a medical provider immediately.

Q: What are the potential side effects of using Rivanolum?

A: When applied topically, Rivanolum is generally well-tolerated. However, like all topical treatments, it may cause local reactions, especially in sensitive individuals. The most common side effects include:

  • Skin irritation at the site of application.
  • Redness or a burning sensation upon initial application.
  • Allergic contact dermatitis (a skin rash or reaction) in rare cases.

Additionally, Rivanolum can cause a noticeable yellow stain on skin, clothing, and other surfaces, which is due to the chemical structure of ethacridine. This staining is usually temporary on the skin but can be persistent on fabrics.

If you experience severe irritation, a rash, or any signs of a serious allergic reaction (such as swelling of the face, tongue, or throat), seek emergency medical attention.


Q: Can Rivanolum be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

A: There is limited high-quality human data available regarding the safety of widespread or prolonged topical use of Rivanolum during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

For topical application to small areas of skin or minor wounds, the systemic absorption (how much gets into the bloodstream) is generally considered very low, suggesting a low risk.

However, it is a standard precaution to:

  • Consult a healthcare professional before using any medication, including topical antiseptics like Rivanolum, during pregnancy.
  • If used while breastfeeding, ensure the product is not applied to the breast or nipple area to prevent accidental ingestion by the infant.

Always discuss the potential benefits versus the theoretical risks with a doctor or pharmacist.

How should Rivanolum be stored and disposed of?

How to Store and Dispose of Rivanolum?

The official storage and disposal guidelines for Rivanolum (Ethacridine Lactate) must be followed to maintain its stability and prevent environmental harm.

Storage Requirements

Rivanolum is required to be stored at room temperature, typically within the range of 15 C to 25 C or 15 C to 30 C. The medicine must be kept in its original container, which should be tightly closed to protect it from moisture. It is mandatory to store the product in a dry, well-ventilated place and away from direct sunlight.

Disposal and Protection

The product must be stored out of the sight and reach of children (Store locked up). For disposal, all unused or expired medicine must be discarded in accordance with local and national regulations. To protect the environment, the product must not be allowed to enter drains, sewers, or waterways.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

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