Ethyl Chloride Side Effects: What You Should Know

Ethyl Chloride (Chloroethane) is a vapocoolant spray used by healthcare professionals to temporarily numb the skin before injections, minor procedures, and for managing myofascial pain. It is manufactured by Gebauer Company and classified as an FDA-cleared medical device.

Because Ethyl Chloride is applied topically for very short durations — usually just a few seconds — side effects tend to be mild and short-lived. However, there are some serious risks to be aware of, especially if the product is used incorrectly. This guide covers what to expect and when you should contact your doctor.

What Is Ethyl Chloride?

Ethyl Chloride is a skin refrigerant that works by rapidly evaporating from the skin surface, creating an intense cooling effect. This temporarily numbs sensory nerves in the area, providing pain relief for about 60 seconds. It is used for IV starts, blood draws, minor surgical procedures, sports injuries, and the spray and stretch technique for muscle pain.

Common Side Effects

These side effects are considered normal and usually resolve on their own within minutes:

• Temporary skin whitening — The skin at the application site turns white briefly as it cools. This is expected and fades quickly as the skin warms back up.
• Brief stinging or burning sensation — You may feel a sharp cold or mild stinging when the spray first contacts your skin. This typically lasts only a few seconds.
• Cutaneous sensitization — Extremely rare, but some people may develop skin sensitivity at the application site after repeated use.

These effects are a normal part of how the product works. The rapid cooling that causes skin whitening is the same mechanism that provides the numbing effect.

Serious Side Effects

While serious side effects are uncommon when Ethyl Chloride is used correctly by a trained healthcare provider, they can occur — especially with improper use:

• Frostbite — If sprayed too long or from too close a distance, Ethyl Chloride can cause frostbite. The skin should only turn white briefly; if it stays white, hard, or blistered, seek medical attention.
• Tissue damage — Prolonged application can damage underlying tissue. Providers are trained to spray for no more than 7 to 10 seconds per application.
• Altered skin pigmentation — In rare cases, the treated area may develop temporary changes in skin color.
• Burns from flammability — Ethyl Chloride is highly flammable. It should never be used near open flames, electrical cautery equipment, or sparking devices. Burns can occur if this safety precaution is not followed.
• Allergic reaction — Though rare, signs include rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing at or near the application site. Seek immediate medical care if this occurs.

Inhalation Abuse Warning

Ethyl Chloride carries a prominent warning about inhalation misuse. Intentionally inhaling or concentrating the vapors can cause organ damage or death. This product should only be used as directed by a healthcare professional for its intended topical application.

Specific Populations

Children

Clinical studies support the use of Ethyl Chloride in children ages 3 and older for procedural pain management, such as reducing pain during vaccinations and blood draws. A healthcare provider should always apply it.

Pregnant Women

Ethyl Chloride should only be used during pregnancy if prescribed by a doctor. The benefits should outweigh any potential risks.

Breastfeeding

It is unknown whether Ethyl Chloride passes into breast milk. If you are breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before having this spray used on you.

People With Poor Circulation

Ethyl Chloride should not be applied to areas with poor blood circulation. The cooling effect combined with reduced blood flow increases the risk of tissue damage and frostbite.

How to Manage Common Side Effects

Most side effects from Ethyl Chloride resolve quickly without any treatment. Here are some tips:

• For skin whitening: No action needed. The area will return to normal color within a few minutes as blood flow returns.
• For stinging or burning: This passes within seconds. If discomfort continues beyond a few minutes, let your provider know.
• For skin sensitivity: If you notice redness, irritation, or sensitivity after treatment, apply a gentle moisturizer and avoid further exposure until the area heals. Tell your doctor before your next treatment.

If you experience any of the serious side effects listed above — especially signs of frostbite (white, hard, or blistered skin), an allergic reaction, or burns — contact your healthcare provider immediately or go to the nearest emergency room.

Final Thoughts

Ethyl Chloride is generally safe when applied correctly by a trained healthcare professional. The most common side effects — skin whitening and brief stinging — are mild and expected. Serious risks like frostbite and burns are preventable with proper technique and safety precautions.

If you have concerns about side effects or want to learn more about how Ethyl Chloride is used, talk to your doctor. You can also read our guide on how Ethyl Chloride works or explore alternative treatments if you have sensitivities to this product.

Need help finding Ethyl Chloride? Medfinder can help you locate providers and facilities that stock it near you.