hexachlorophene

Action and Spectrum

Actions and Spectrum 

Actions: 

hexachlorophene has strong antibacterial properties and is a topical antiseptic and disinfectant. Its mechanism of action involves disrupting the cell membranes of bacteria, leading to leakage of cellular contents and ultimately causing bacterial death. 

Spectrum: 

hexachlorophene has a broad antibacterial spectrum, meaning it has the potential to be effective against a variety of bacteria. It was used to prevent the growth of bacteria on the skin and in wounds. 

Drug Interaction

Adverse Reaction

Frequency defined 

<1% 

Erythema 

Dermatitis 

Neurologic injury 

Irritability 

Skin photosensitivity 

Seizure 

Xeroderma 

Black Box Warning

Black Box Warning: 

hexachlorophene is hazardous for the unborn fetus. 

Contraindication / Caution

Contraindication/Caution: 

Contraindications: 

• Infants 
• Open wounds 
• Broken skin 

Cautions: 

• Skin sensitivity 
• Absorption 
• Neurotoxicity 
• Environmental impact 
• Interaction with chlorine 
• Pregnancy 
• Breastfeeding 

Pregnancy / Lactation

Pregnancy consideration:  

Pregnancy Category: C 

Breastfeeding warnings:  

No data is available regarding the excretion of drug in breast milk.  

Pregnancy category: 

Category A: well-controlled and satisfactory studies show no risk to the fetus in the first or later trimester. 

Category B: there was no evidence of risk to the fetus in animal studies, and there were not enough studies on pregnant women. 

Category C: there was evidence of risk of adverse effects in animal reproduction studies, and no adequate evidence in human studies must take care of potential risks in pregnant women.    

Category D: adequate data with sufficient evidence of human fetal risk from various platforms, but despite the potential risk, and used only in emergency cases for potential benefits.    

Category X: Drugs listed in this category outweigh the risks over benefits. Hence these categories of drugs need to be avoided by pregnant women.    

Category N: No data is available for the drug under this category. 

Pharmacology

Pharmacology:  

hexachlorophene exerts its pharmacological effects by disrupting bacterial cell membranes. It specifically targets the lipids (fats) in the cell membranes of bacteria. This disruption causes structural damage to the cell membrane, leading to increased permeability and leakage of cellular contents. Ultimately, the disruption of the bacterial cell membrane results in cell death.Top of Form 

Pharmacodynamics: 

While hexachlorophene was effective as an antibacterial agent, its use was associated with significant risks. Its mechanism of disrupting cell membranes also posed a threat to human cells, particularly nerve cells. Excessive absorption of hexachlorophene through the skin, especially in infants and young children, could lead to neurotoxic effects, including seizures and developmental delays. This potential for systemic toxicity contributed to the discontinuation of hexachlorophene-containing products. 

Pharmacokinetics: 

Absorption 

hexachlorophene can be absorbed through the skin when applied topically.  

Distribution 

Once absorbed, hexachlorophene can accumulate in various tissues, contributing to its potential for toxic effects. 

Metabolism 

hexachlorophene is primarily metabolized in the liver. The exact metabolic pathways are complex and involve several steps. The liver enzymes break down hexachlorophene into various metabolites as part of the body’s attempt to eliminate the compound. 

Elimination and Excretion 

Metabolized hexachlorophene and its metabolites are primarily excreted through the urine. The kidneys are crucial in filtering these compounds from the bloodstream and eliminating them from the body. 

Adminstartion

Patient Information Leaflet

Patient information leaflet 

Generic Name: hexachlorophene 

Pronounced as: heks-a-KLOR-oh-feen 

Why do we use hexachlorophene? 

hexachlorophene is an antibacterial agent. It is used for its antibacterial properties in surgical preparation, preoperative cleaning, and personal hygiene.