Work out alcohol dilution for pharmacy instantly with clear inputs, formula shown and shareable results.
Applies the dilution equation to alcohol strengths and notes that volume contraction on mixing means the preparation should be made up to volume.
Alcohol dilution
V1 = desired strength x final volume / stock strength; nominal water = final volume - V1
Educational estimate only. Not a substitute for professional clinical judgement, and must not be used to make treatment or dosing decisions.
Mixing equal volumes of ethanol and water loses about 3 to 4% of the combined volume.
Water is needed for protein denaturation, so 70% ethanol kills more effectively than absolute alcohol.