Antiseptics are chemicals used to reduce or eliminate microorganisms on living tissues, such as skin or mucous membranes.
They must be safe for use on human tissues and are typically less potent than disinfectants.
Common Antiseptics and Their Mechanisms
1. Alcohols (Ethanol, Isopropanol)
Mechanism: Denature proteins and disrupt cell membranes.
Use: Skin antiseptics, hand sanitizers.
2. Iodine Compounds (Iodophors)
Mechanism: Oxidize cellular components and disrupt protein synthesis.
Use: Preoperative skin preparation, wound cleaning.
3. Chlorhexidine
Mechanism: Disrupts cell membranes and precipitates cellular contents.
Use: Preoperative skin preparation, oral rinses.
4. Hydrogen Peroxide
Mechanism: Produces free radicals that oxidize cellular components.
Use: Wound cleaning, mouthwash.
5. Quaternary Ammonium Compounds
Mechanism: Disrupt cell membranes.
Use: Skin antiseptics, wound cleaning.