Chloroxylenol

• Topical Antiseptic and Disinfectant: Used for the prevention and treatment of skin infections caused by susceptible bacteria and fungi.
• Wound Cleaning: Cleansing of minor cuts, abrasions, and burns to prevent infection.
• Preoperative Skin Preparation: As an antiseptic agent prior to surgical procedures.
• Disinfection of Surfaces and Instruments: Used in hospitals, clinics, and households for disinfecting surfaces and medical equipment.
• Treatment of Acne and Skin Infections: Employed in some formulations for mild acne and superficial skin infections.
• Off-label Uses: Adjunctive treatment in seborrheic dermatitis and other inflammatory skin conditions with bacterial colonization.

• Topical Use: Apply to affected area 2-3 times daily as a solution, cream, ointment, or soap-based formulation.
• Concentration: Typically 0.5% to 4% chloroxylenol in topical preparations.
• Wound Cleansing: Use as a diluted solution for cleaning wounds; rinse off after a few minutes.
• Preoperative Skin Prep: Apply as directed by institutional protocols, generally allowed to dry before procedure.
• Duration: Continue treatment until infection resolves or as directed by a healthcare professional.
• Special Populations: Use cautiously in children and elderly; avoid use on large open wounds or mucous membranes.
• Avoid ingestion or contact with eyes and ears.

Chloroxylenol is a phenolic antiseptic agent that exerts its antimicrobial effect by disrupting the microbial cell membrane integrity and denaturing proteins. This disruption causes leakage of cellular contents and ultimately leads to microbial cell death. It is bactericidal against a broad spectrum of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, and exhibits fungicidal activity against certain fungi. Its effectiveness as a disinfectant makes it suitable for topical antisepsis and environmental decontamination.

• Absorption: Minimal systemic absorption when applied topically to intact skin.
• Distribution: Confined mainly to the site of application.
• Metabolism: Not significantly metabolized systemically due to limited absorption.
• Excretion: Any absorbed chloroxylenol is excreted primarily via the kidneys.
• Half-life: Not clinically significant due to minimal systemic exposure.

• Pregnancy: Classified as Category C (FDA) or considered safe when used topically with minimal systemic absorption. Use only if benefits outweigh potential risks.
• Lactation: No data on excretion into breast milk; topical use is considered safe, but caution advised to avoid application on breast tissue.

• Topical antiseptic and disinfectant.

• Known hypersensitivity or allergy to chloroxylenol or phenolic compounds.
• Use on large open wounds, deep puncture wounds, or severe burns without medical supervision.
• Avoid application to eyes, ears, or mucous membranes.

• Avoid contact with eyes, ears, and mucous membranes; may cause irritation.
• May cause allergic contact dermatitis or sensitization in susceptible individuals.
• Use with caution in pediatric and elderly populations.
• Avoid ingestion; toxic if swallowed.
• In rare cases, systemic toxicity can occur with excessive use or use on large wounds.
• Discontinue use if severe skin irritation or hypersensitivity develops.

Common:

• Local irritation, redness, burning sensation, or itching at the site of application.
• Mild dryness or peeling of skin.

Serious/Rare:

• Allergic contact dermatitis or rash.
• Hypersensitivity reactions including anaphylaxis (very rare).
• Systemic toxicity from ingestion or extensive absorption, presenting with CNS symptoms, nausea, or vomiting.

• No significant drug-drug interactions expected with topical use.
• May be inactivated by anionic detergents or soaps if mixed; avoid concurrent use with incompatible topical agents.
• No notable drug-food or drug-alcohol interactions.

• Continued endorsement for use as an effective broad-spectrum antiseptic in topical infections and surface disinfection.
• Emphasis on avoiding overuse to reduce risk of sensitization and allergic reactions.
• No major changes in approved indications or dosing protocols reported recently by regulatory agencies.

• Store at 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F).
• Protect from excessive heat, moisture, and direct sunlight.
• Keep container tightly closed and out of reach of children.
• Do not freeze.