sodium hypochlorite solution

Action and Spectrum

Actions and Spectrum 

sodium hypochlorite solution acts as an antimicrobial agent by releasing chlorine gas, which is highly effective at killing a wide range of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi. sodium hypochlorite is effective against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria.

Drug Interaction

Adverse Reaction

Frequency not defined  

Dissolves blood clots 

Irritating to skin 

Delays clotting

Black Box Warning

Black Box Warning 

None

Contraindication / Caution

Contraindication/Caution: 

Contraindication: 

• Individuals who have a known hypersensitivity or allergy to sodium hypochlorite should avoid its use.  

Caution: 

• sodium hypochlorite should not be applied to open wounds, extensive burns, or damaged skin.  
• Contact with sodium hypochlorite solutions should be avoided near the eyes. 

Pregnancy / Lactation

Pregnancy consideration: 

Pregnancy category: N/A 

Lactation: Excretion into human milk is unknown  

Pregnancy Categories:         

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

<b>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: There is no data available for the drug under this category. 

Pharmacology

Pharmacology  

sodium hypochlorite can disrupt the integrity of microbial cell membranes, causing leakage of cellular contents and eventual cell death. 

Pharmacodynamics 

sodium hypochlorite is a strong oxidizing agent. It can interact with and oxidize cellular components of microorganisms, including proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids.  

Pharmacokinetics 

Absorption   

sodium hypochlorite’s absorption is generally limited due to the nature of the skin’s barrier function.   

Distribution 

sodium hypochlorite is distributed to various tissues.  

Metabolism 

sodium hypochlorite undergoes chemical reactions and breakdown when it meets biological tissues. 

Elimination and excretion 

sodium hypochlorite is eliminated through renal excretion.

Adminstartion

Administration 

sodium hypochlorite solutions are commonly applied topically, and it is available in gel and liquid form.

Patient Information Leaflet

Patient information leaflet 

Generic Name: sodium hypochlorite solution  

Why do we use sodium hypochlorite solution? 

sodium hypochlorite solutions are used to clean and disinfect wounds, particularly for minor cuts, abrasions, and shallow burns.  

sodium hypochlorite topical solutions are commonly used as disinfectants, antiseptics, and wound cleansers.