ANTISEPTIC
Definition of Antiseptic
A substance used to kill or inhibit the growth of microorganisms on living tissues.
Why Use Antiseptics?
1.
Infection Prevention:
To clean wounds, cuts, or abrasions and prevent infections.
2.
Surgical Preparation:
To clean the skin before surgeries.
3.
Oral Hygiene:
In mouthwashes to reduce oral bacteria.
4.
Healthcare Settings:
Used to sterilize skin before injections or catheter insertions.
Examples of Antiseptics
1.
Alcohol-Based:
Isopropyl alcohol or ethanol (commonly used to clean the skin before
injections).
2.
Chlorhexidine:
Used in mouthwashes.
3.
Hydrogen Peroxide:
For cleaning wounds.
4.
Iodine/Betadine:
Often used for pre-operative skin disinfection.
Mechanism of Action
Antiseptics disrupt essential microbial functions:
1.
Protein Denaturation:
Alcohols and phenols denature
proteins, impairing enzyme function.
2.
Membrane Disruption:
Chlorhexidine and alcohol disrupt
the lipid bilayer of microbial cell membranes, leading to cell leakage
and death.
3.
Oxidative Damage:
Hydrogen peroxide releases reactive oxygen species that damage microbial DNA, proteins, and lipids.
DISINFECTANTS
Definition:
Substances used to kill
or inhibit the growth
of microorganisms on non-living
surfaces to prevent infections or contamination.
Why Use disinfectants?
- To
sanitize surfaces in homes, hospitals, and industries.
- To
prevent the spread of harmful pathogens.
- To
maintain hygiene in public spaces and equipment.
Examples:
- Bleach
(sodium hypochlorite)
- Phenols
(e.g., Lysol)
- Alcohols
(isopropyl alcohol, ethanol)
- Quaternary
Ammonium Compounds (e.g., benzalkonium chloride)
Mechanism of Action:
1.
Protein Denaturation:
Alcohol and phenols disrupt proteins, impairing microbial function.
2.
Membrane Disruption:
Detergents and quaternary ammonium compounds damage microbial cell walls.
3.
Oxidation:
Bleach and hydrogen peroxide release reactive species that destroy microbial
components.