see also:

• toxicology
• StatPearls

• phenol is toxic to humans
• individuals may be exposed to phenol through breathing contaminated air or through skin contact in the workplace
• Other exposures to phenol may occur through the use of phenol-containing medicinal products (including mouthwashes, toothache drops, throat lozenges, analgesic rubs, and antiseptic lotions) or smoking tobacco.

• inhalation and dermal exposure to phenol is highly irritating to the skin, eyes, and mucous membranes in humans.
• systemic exposure may cause irregular breathing, muscle weakness and tremors, loss of coordination, convulsions, coma, and respiratory arrest at lethal doses.

• Anorexia, progressive weight loss, diarrhea, vertigo, salivation, and a dark coloration of the urine.
• Gastrointestinal irritation and blood and liver effects have also been reported.