antiseptika

Antiseptika are chemical substances applied to living tissues to prevent infection by reducing the growth or viability of microorganisms on skin and mucous membranes. They are used for skin preparation before injections or surgery, wound care, and hand hygiene. They differ from disinfectants, which are designed for inanimate surfaces, and from antibiotics, which act systemically.

Antiseptics exhibit diverse mechanisms, including disruption of cell membranes, denaturation of proteins, and oxidation of cellular components. Their activity can be broad, affecting bacteria, fungi, and viruses, but spectra and potency vary. Some agents are rapidly bactericidal; others are primarily bacteriostatic or sporostatic.

Common antiseptics include alcohols (ethanol, isopropanol) for rapid skin disinfection; chlorhexidine and povidone-iodine for skin preparation; hydrogen peroxide and peracetic acid in wound care and cleaning; quaternary ammonium compounds; and historical phenolics. In dentistry and oral care, chlorhexidine mouthwashes are widely used. Some combinations or concentrations may have cytotoxic effects on healing tissue.

Used in medical and consumer settings in concentrations tailored to skin, mucous membranes, or wounds. Cautions include possible allergic reactions (iodine, chlorhexidine), dermatitis, and potential interference with wound healing for certain agents. Alcohol-based products may dry skin; antiseptics should be used as directed, with attention to contact time and dilution.

Many antiseptics are regulated as medicines or medical devices. Hand hygiene guidelines from WHO and CDC emphasize alcohol-based rubs for routine use. The modern concept of antisepsis originated with Joseph Lister and evolved with the development of modern antiseptics in the 20th century.