Sodium Hypochlorite

• Topical antiseptic and disinfectant for cleansing and decontamination of wounds, ulcers, and minor skin infections.
• Dental use as an irrigating solution for root canal therapy to eliminate bacteria and dissolve organic tissue.
• Water disinfection in potable water and wastewater treatment.
• Surface and instrument sterilization in medical, industrial, and household settings.
• Off-label uses include management of biofilms and certain dermatological conditions.

• Topical application: Use dilute solutions, typically 0.05% to 0.5%, applied to the affected skin or wound area with sterile gauze or soaked dressings once or twice daily, adjusted by clinical condition.
• Dental irrigation: Concentrations from 0.5% to 5.25% are used during root canal procedures under professional supervision.
• Water treatment: Dose varies according to volume and contamination levels, following local regulatory standards.
• Special populations: Use caution in pediatric, elderly, or patients with sensitive skin or large open wounds. No systemic dose adjustments are necessary.
• Administration route: Topical or as per environmental protocols.

Sodium hypochlorite releases hypochlorous acid in aqueous solutions, a powerful oxidizing agent that penetrates microbial cell walls and disrupts vital cellular components such as proteins, nucleic acids, and lipids through oxidative damage. This leads to rapid and broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against bacteria, viruses, fungi, and spores. Additionally, it disrupts microbial biofilms, enhancing wound cleansing and disinfection.

• Absorption: Minimal systemic absorption with topical use; higher absorption possible through large or deep wounds.
• Distribution: Confined locally at the site of application.
• Metabolism: Rapidly decomposes into chloride ions and oxygen.
• Half-life: Very short, due to immediate breakdown in biological environments.
• Excretion: Eliminated primarily as chloride ions via renal pathways if systemically absorbed; otherwise negligible.

• Pregnancy: No specific FDA category; topical use with minimal absorption suggests low risk but should be used only if clearly necessary.
• Lactation: No specific data; minimal systemic absorption implies low risk. Avoid direct application on breast tissue.

• Antiseptic and disinfectant.
• Oxidizing agent subclass.

• Known hypersensitivity to sodium hypochlorite or formulation components.
• Application on deep wounds or mucous membranes without medical supervision.
• Severe skin conditions prone to irritation or chemical burns.
• Use in eyes except under strict professional guidance with appropriate dilutions.

• Avoid contact with eyes, mucous membranes, and deep wounds to prevent chemical burns.
• Use only recommended dilutions; concentrated solutions are corrosive.
• Prolonged or repeated use may cause irritation or dermatitis.
• Use in well-ventilated areas to avoid inhalation of fumes.
• Discontinue use and seek medical attention if adverse reactions occur.
• Maintain aseptic technique to avoid contamination.

• Common: Mild burning, stinging, redness, or irritation at application site.
• Less common: Allergic dermatitis, dryness, peeling.
• Rare: Chemical burns, severe allergic reactions.
• Systemic toxicity is rare but may result from ingestion or extensive absorption.

• No significant systemic drug interactions due to topical application.
• Avoid mixing with acids or ammonia-containing products to prevent toxic gas formation.
• Use with other topical antiseptics cautiously.

• Emphasis on appropriate dilution to balance antimicrobial efficacy with safety.
• Increasing availability of stabilized, less irritating formulations.
• Regulatory advisories caution against misuse of concentrated solutions in non-professional settings.

·         Store at 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F).

·         Protect from light, heat, and freezing.

·         Keep containers tightly closed and away from incompatible substances.

·         Follow manufacturer’s instructions for shelf life and handling.