Isopropyl alcohol is a form of alcohol made by adding propene, a gas produced by fermentation, to water. It is widely used as an industrial solvent.
In medicine, it is commonly used as an antiseptic. It is the major active component of hand sanitizing gels, and is also used in disinfecting pads. Because it evaporates rapidly, it can be used as a coolant, but it is not recommended for this use due to its toxicity..
As it has a similar effect to ether when inhaled, it was once used as an anesthetic. However, it is no longer used in this manner due to its severe side effects.
Like alcohol, it can be toxic, although it is not as toxic as methanol. However, it can be toxic when ingested, inhaled or even when it is absorbed through the skin.