Hydrogen peroxide

• Topical Antiseptic
• Cleaning minor cuts, abrasions, and burns to prevent infection
• Used for superficial wounds to remove debris and disinfect the area
• Oral Hygiene
• Short-term use as a mouth rinse for oral mucosa inflammation, gingivitis, or minor mouth injuries (diluted solutions only)
• Ear Care
• Softening earwax (cerumen) for easy removal under professional guidance
• Off-label / Clinically Accepted Uses
• Irrigation of wounds, ulcers, or skin infections under medical supervision
• Occasional use in teeth whitening or bleaching in dental practices

• Topical Application
• 3% solution: Apply a small amount directly to the wound or soaked on a gauze
• Frequency: 1–2 times daily until healing occurs
• Oral Rinse
• Diluted 1–3% solution: Swish for 30 seconds and spit out; do not swallow
• Ear Wax Softening
• Instill a few drops of 3% solution into the ear canal for 1–2 minutes; then rinse with lukewarm water
• Special Populations
• Children: Use only under supervision
• Elderly: Monitor skin for irritation
• Avoid prolonged use on large open wounds

Hydrogen peroxide is an oxidizing agent that releases oxygen when it comes in contact with tissues or organic material. The liberated oxygen produces effervescence that mechanically cleans debris and exudates. The oxidative action damages bacterial cell walls and DNA, effectively reducing microbial load and preventing infection.

• Absorption: Minimal systemic absorption when used topically
• Distribution: Primarily local; systemic distribution negligible
• Metabolism: Rapidly broken down by catalase enzyme in tissues into water and oxygen
• Excretion: Converted into water and oxygen; eliminated locally, minimal systemic clearance
• Onset: Immediate foaming effect on contact
• Duration: Antimicrobial activity persists as long as oxygen bubbles remain

• Pregnancy: No systemic absorption; generally considered safe for topical use during pregnancy when used appropriately
• Lactation: Safe for topical use; avoid ingestion
• Caution: Data on prolonged or high-concentration use in pregnancy are limited

• Primary Class: Antiseptic / Oxidizing agent
• Subclass: Topical antimicrobial / disinfectant

• Known hypersensitivity to hydrogen peroxide
• Deep or puncture wounds, serious burns, or large open wounds without medical supervision
• Eye or mucous membrane exposure to concentrated solutions (>3%)

• Avoid ingestion; concentrated solutions can cause gastrointestinal injury
• Use only on minor wounds; excessive or prolonged use may impair wound healing
• High-risk groups: Children, pregnant women, and patients with compromised skin integrity
• Seek medical attention if irritation, excessive redness, or pain develops

• Local Irritation: Burning, stinging, redness, or swelling
• Dermatologic: Blistering or delayed healing with prolonged or concentrated use
• Rare/Serious: Allergic reactions or mucosal damage if swallowed
• Timing: Usually immediate and dose-dependent

• No significant systemic drug interactions expected
• Avoid combining with iodine-based antiseptics or strong oxidizing agents for topical use to prevent inactivation

• Recommended for short-term use only
• Dilution for oral rinses emphasized in dental guidelines
• Prolonged or concentrated use discouraged due to risk of tissue irritation
• Current wound care protocols favor saline or mild antiseptics for routine cleaning over routine hydrogen peroxide

• Store at 20°C to 25°C (room temperature)
• Keep container tightly closed, away from light and heat
• Avoid freezing; degradation occurs upon exposure to air, light, or heat
• Keep out of reach of children and pets