Hydrogen peroxide
Indications
Hydrogen peroxide is a mild antiseptic used on the skin to prevent infection of minor cuts, scrapes, and burns. It may also be used as a mouth rinse to help remove mucus or to relieve minor mouth irritation (e.g., due to canker/cold sores, gingivitis). This product works by releasing oxygen when it is applied to the affected area. The release of oxygen causes foaming, which helps to remove dead skin and clean the area. This product should not be used to treat deep wounds, animal bites, or serious burns.
Pharmacology
Hydrogen peroxide is an oxidising agent with antibacterial and antiviral activity. It is used as an antiseptic, disinfectant, and deodorant. It also has a mild haemostatic action. It exerts its antiseptic action partly by its ready release of oxygen when applied to tissues, but this effect is reduced in the presence of organic matter. The mechanical effect of effervescence may be more useful for wound cleansing than the antimicrobial action.
Dosage & Administration
Follow all directions on the product package. If you are uncertain about any of the information, consult your doctor or pharmacist. Do not use in the eyes or apply over large areas of skin.
If you are using this product on the skin, clean the affected area before use. Apply a small amount of product on the affected area, usually 1 to 3 times daily or as directed by your doctor. If you apply a bandage after using this product, let the area dry first.
If you are using this product as a mouth rinse, mix with an equal amount of water before using. Swish in the mouth over the affected area for at least 1 minute, then spit out. Do not swallow this product. Rinse up to 4 times daily or as directed by your dentist or doctor.
Use this product regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same time(s) each day.
Tell your doctor if your condition does not improve in 7 days or if it worsens. If you think you may have a serious medical problem, seek immediate medical attention.
If you are using this product on the skin, clean the affected area before use. Apply a small amount of product on the affected area, usually 1 to 3 times daily or as directed by your doctor. If you apply a bandage after using this product, let the area dry first.
If you are using this product as a mouth rinse, mix with an equal amount of water before using. Swish in the mouth over the affected area for at least 1 minute, then spit out. Do not swallow this product. Rinse up to 4 times daily or as directed by your dentist or doctor.
Use this product regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same time(s) each day.
Tell your doctor if your condition does not improve in 7 days or if it worsens. If you think you may have a serious medical problem, seek immediate medical attention.
Interaction
If you are using this product under your doctor's direction, your doctor or pharmacist may already be aware of any possible drug interactions and may be monitoring you for them. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicine before checking with your doctor or pharmacist first. Keep a list of all your medications with you, and share the list with your doctor and pharmacist.
Contraindications
Inj or instillation of hydrogen peroxide into closed body cavities.
Side Effects
Irritating burns on the skin and mucous membranes (strong solutions); reversible hypertrophy of the papillae of the tongue with continued use as mouthwash; gas embolism, rupture of the colon, proctitis, ulcerative colitis and gangrene of the intestines have occurred following colonic lavage with hydrogen peroxide solution.
Pregnancy & Lactation
This product is safe to use during pregnancy. It is unlikely that this product passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Precautions & Warnings
Before using hydrogen peroxide, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
Therapeutic Class
Oxidising agent with antibacterial and antiviral properties
Storage Conditions
Store at 15-30° C.
