Rubbing Alcohol: FSA Eligibility

What is rubbing alcohol?

Rubbing alcohol is a liquid antiseptic that can be purchased Over-the-Counter (OTC) from most drug stores, pharmacies, and grocery stores. Rubbing alcohol can be formulated in numerous ways but is always antiseptic and alcohol-based. The most common formulations are isopropyl alcohol (propan-2-ol) or an ethanol-based formulation. Rubbing alcohol can be manufactured to various concentrations and is naturally colorless, but may have color added. It is rendered poisonous by the addition of Formula 23-H in order to prevent the alcohol component from being consumed for intoxication purposes (LIVESTRONG).

What is rubbing alcohol used for?

Rubbing alcohol is used for topical antiseptic applications. It is safe to use on cuts and wounds on the skin that are not internal. It should never be ingested.

What might rubbing alcohol be prescribed for?

Rubbing alcohol might be prescribed for sterilization of medical equipment such as a breathing mask or tube, or an electronic instrument that must be sterilized before and after use. Rubbing alcohol is useful for these tasks in a similar way to its use in sterilizing cuts, scratches, and scrapes.

How is rubbing alcohol reimbursed?

The expense of purchasing rubbing alcohol, an OTC medical product, can be reimbursed with a consumer-directed healthcare account if a medical professional has prescribed rubbing alcohol to an individual. For a medical professional to prescribe rubbing alcohol, it must be involved in treating, preventing or alleviating a medical condition or disease. To that end, rubbing alcohol might be prescribed in order to clean the surface of skin before performing a medical injection, or cleaning medical equipment that requires sterilizing before or after use.