Polihexanide
Polihexanide is a synthetic antiseptic and disinfectant agent primarily used for wound cleansing, irrigation, and skin disinfection. It is commonly employed in the management of acute and chronic wounds, including burns, and is also used as a preservative in certain ophthalmic solutions. This medication is effective against a broad spectrum of bacteria and some fungi.
Polihexanide is a broad-spectrum antiseptic/disinfectant used primarily for wound care and skin disinfection.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- D08AC05
- RxNorm
- 1373041
- Generic
- Polihexanide
- Class
- atc-d08
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- topical
- Forms
- ointment, spray
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Dosage and administration
- Usual dose
- 500mg twice daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- every 12 hours
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 250mg twice daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- every 12 hours
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 400mg daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- once daily
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
Overdose information
Special Populations
8 groupspregnancy
first trimesterno adjustment needed for topical use
avoid use on large body surface areas or broken skin during pregnancy
standard prenatal care
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pregnancy
third trimesterno adjustment needed for topical use
can be used as directed for topical antiseptic purposes
standard prenatal care
lactation
breastfeedingavoid application to nipple area
do not apply to breast or nipple area; wash thoroughly before breastfeeding if applied to other areas
monitor infant for local skin reactions
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pediatric_age
neonatesuse reduced concentration if available
use with caution in neonates; avoid on large surface areas or broken skin
monitor for skin irritation
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pediatric_age
infants childrenno adjustment needed
can be used as directed for topical antiseptic and wound care
monitor for local skin reactions
geriatric
elderlyno adjustment needed
can be used as directed; monitor skin integrity due to fragile skin
monitor for skin irritation or sensitivity
renal_impairment
mild moderateno adjustment needed for topical use
can be used as directed; minimal systemic absorption
standard monitoring
hepatic_impairment
mild moderateno adjustment needed for topical use
can be used as directed; minimal systemic absorption
standard monitoring
Statistics and clinical data
Commonly used since
General usage information
Drug class
Drug class information
Common uses
Common therapeutic uses
Mechanism of action
Mechanism of action information
Treatment and prevention of infections in acute and chronic wounds including burns, leg ulcers, and surgical wounds; wound irrigation and cleansing; skin disinfection; preservative in ophthalmic solutions for eye care.
Polihexanide is a cationic polymer that binds to bacterial cell membranes, causing disruption and leakage of cellular contents. It has broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, as well as some fungi and yeast.
For external use only; avoid contact with eyes and ears; not for injection; may cause local irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals; effectiveness may be reduced in the presence of organic matter such as blood or serum; consult healthcare provider before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Contraindications
Conditions and patient states where this medication should be avoided or used with caution.
Do not use (1)
Known allergy to this medication or its components
Use caution (1)
Consult healthcare provider for benefits vs risks assessment
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 20, 2026. · Read our editorial policy