There are different types of antiseptics available in the market which can be used and applied without a doctor's prescription. Antiseptics are used extensively in hospitals and other health care settings for a variety of topical and hard-surface applications. Even for general cleaning purposes, antiseptics are used. The basic purpose of using antiseptics is to prevent bacterial growth and infections. There are few antiseptics which have been in use for a long time. Their effectiveness is known and we are discussing these common antiseptics and their usages below:
Iodophors: Contains iodine in a complex form. This is relatively nonirritating and nontoxic. Effective against a broad range of microorganisms. Less irritating to the skin. Recommended for surgical scrub and is the best antiseptic for use in the genital area, vagina, and cervix. Iodophors are effective few minutes after application. Do not dilute them. Popular brand: Betadine.
Chlorhexidine Gluconate: Useful against a broad range of microorganisms, but the effect is minimum on tuberculosis and fungi. Remains effective for at least 6 hours after being applied. Has a good, persistent effect. If irritaion occurs, it can be reduced by hard water, creams, and natural soaps. This is also used for surgical scrub and skin prep, in the genital area, vagina, and cervix.
Iodine: This is a popular antiseptic used against a broad range of microorganisms. It acts fast but can cause skin irritation. It cannot be used for routine use in surgical scrub or on mucous membranes as it causes irritation. Because of this, when used for pre-procedure skin application, iodine must be allowed to dry and then removed from the skin using alcohol.
Alcohol: This is another popular antiseptic product. Effective against a broad range of microorganisms. It acts fast in killing microorganisms. Has a drying effect on skin and hence not recommended to be used on mucous membranes. Wash the skin before applying it. To be effective, it must dry completely. Alcohol can also be diluted for optimal killing of microorganisms.
PCMX (Para-chloro-meta-xylenol): This is fairly effective against most microorganisms. This antiseptic has a persistent effect over many hours but it is less effective than chlorhexidine and iodophors. Available in both antiseptic and disinfectant preparations. It should not be used on mucous membranes.
Hexachlorophene: Among the other antiseptics, this has the least effectiveness against most microorganisms. Has a good, persistent effect with repeated use. It is toxic to the nervous system. Occasional use cannot reduce the number of microorganisms on hands. If use of this antiseptic is discontinued after long-term use, there is chances of re-growth of bacteria, causing large-scale contamination. Not recommended for use in surgical scrub.Brand: pHisoHex.
Boric acid: Used in suppositories for treating vaginal yeast infections. Can be used in eyewashes, and as an antiviral to reduce the duration of cold sore attacks. Can be applied as creams for burns.
Hydrogen peroxide: Used to clean and deodorize wounds and ulcers. Can also be used in household first aid for scrapes, etc.
Benzalkonium Chloride:This is a mild antiseptic. Comes as a spray and in squirt-bottles. One of the most common antiseptic in over-the-counter f
irst aid preparations
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