hydrogen peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide is a chemical compound with the formula H₂O₂. It is a colorless liquid with strong oxidizing properties, making it useful in many areas, including medicine, cosmetology, and industry.

Using Hydrogen Peroxide:

1. Medical purposes:

   • Hydrogen peroxide is widely used as an antiseptic to cleanse wounds of dead tissue, reduce the risk of infection, and stop bleeding. It is available in concentrations of 3% to 6%, which are safe for external use.
   • It is also used for rinsing the mouth for stomatitis and gingivitis, as it has disinfectant properties.

2. Cosmetology:

   • In cosmetology, hydrogen peroxide is used to lighten hair, as it is capable of destroying pigments in hair, making it lighter.
   • Used in some teeth whitening products.

3. Industrial use:

   • In industry, hydrogen peroxide is used as a bleaching agent in the production of paper and textiles.
   • It is also used as a component in some rocket fuels and as a reagent in chemical processes.

Precautions when using hydrogen peroxide:

• Avoid contact with eyes: Hydrogen peroxide may cause irritation or serious damage if it comes into contact with the eyes.
• Use in diluted form: Uncontrolled use of concentrated solutions may cause skin burns and other injuries.
• Storage: Hydrogen peroxide should be stored in a dark container away from light and heat sources as it decomposes in the presence of light and heat.

Hydrogen peroxide is a powerful and useful substance, but it requires careful handling and following the instructions for use to avoid possible negative consequences.

Indications Hydrogen peroxide

1. Antiseptic: Hydrogen peroxide can be used to cleanse wounds, cuts, burns and other superficial skin lesions from bacteria and germs.
2. Topical treatment of infections: In some cases, hydrogen peroxide can be used to treat various skin infections, including mycoses, dermatitis, and others.
3. Oral Care: The whitening properties of hydrogen peroxide can be used as a mouth rinse and teeth whitening agent.
4. Toothache Relief: Diluted hydrogen peroxide can be used to relieve toothache associated with gum inflammation or other causes.
5. Other medical uses: In some cases, hydrogen peroxide can be used as a topical antiseptic to eliminate body odor, treat boils or acne.

Release form

1. Topical Solution: Hydrogen peroxide may be available as a solution of varying strengths for topical use. This solution can be used to treat minor cuts, scrapes, burns, or other superficial wounds.
2. Oral solution: For medical purposes, hydrogen peroxide is sometimes used as an oral solution. However, this is usually done under the supervision of a medical professional.
3. Gel or Cream: Some manufacturers make hydrogen peroxide as a gel or cream for external use on the skin to treat acne, pimples, or other skin problems.
4. Teeth Whitening Strips: Hydrogen peroxide may also be a main ingredient in some teeth whitening products such as strips or gels.
5. Other Forms: Depending on the manufacturer and specific market needs, hydrogen peroxide may also be available in other forms, such as an aerosol or powder.

Pharmacodynamics

1. Antiseptic action: Hydrogen peroxide, when in contact with skin or a wound, decomposes, releasing atomic oxygen. This oxygen is highly reactive and is capable of oxidizing bacterial cells, viruses, and fungi, causing their death. The effectiveness of hydrogen peroxide as an antiseptic is its ability to kill microorganisms on the surface of a wound or skin, preventing or reducing the risk of infection.
2. Wound Cleansing: The active oxygen released by hydrogen peroxide helps in removing dead tissue and debris from the wound. This promotes faster healing, reduces the risk of scarring and keeps the wound clean.
3. Deodorizing action: Hydrogen peroxide is also used to eliminate unpleasant odors, as it destroys organic compounds that cause odors due to its oxidizing properties.

Pharmacokinetics

1. Absorption: Topical application of hydrogen peroxide to the skin does not usually result in significant absorption through the skin. However, when applied to open wounds or damaged skin, small amounts of hydrogen peroxide may be absorbed.
2. Distribution: After absorption, hydrogen peroxide can be distributed into tissues where it can exert an antiseptic effect.
3. Metabolism and excretion: Hydrogen peroxide is broken down by aqueous and catalytic mechanisms in the body. It usually breaks down rapidly into water (H2O) and oxygen (O2). Residual molecules may be excreted in the urine or breath.

Dosing and administration

For wound treatment:

1. Concentration:

   • Use 3% hydrogen peroxide solution, which is the standard concentration for medical purposes.

2. Application:

   • Apply a small amount of solution to a gauze bandage or cotton swab.
   • Gently pat or wipe the wound to remove dead tissue and debris.
   • Use hydrogen peroxide once when initially treating a wound, as frequent use may delay healing.

For mouthwash:

1. Concentration:

   • Use a diluted solution: mix 3% hydrogen peroxide with water in a 1:1 ratio.

2. Application:

   • Use about 10 ml (2 teaspoons) of the diluted solution to rinse your mouth.
   • Rinse your mouth for 30-60 seconds, then spit out the solution.
   • Use 1-2 times daily as needed, especially if you have mouth ulcers or inflammation.

For earwax:

1. Concentration:

   • Use 3% hydrogen peroxide solution.

2. Application:

   • Tilt your head so that the affected ear points upward.
   • Place 5-10 drops into the ear and wait a few minutes.
   • Turn your head to the opposite side to allow the solution and softened wax to flow out of the ear.
   • Use as needed, but not more than once a week.

Warnings:

• Hydrogen peroxide may cause irritation or temporary foaming when in contact with organic materials such as blood.
• Do not use hydrogen peroxide to treat serious wounds or deep cuts without consulting a doctor.
• Do not swallow hydrogen peroxide and avoid getting it in your eyes.
• Store hydrogen peroxide in a cool, dark place out of the reach of children.

Use Hydrogen peroxide during pregnancy

Using hydrogen peroxide during pregnancy can be safe, provided proper precautions are taken and a doctor is consulted. Hydrogen peroxide is commonly used topically to clean wounds, as an antiseptic, and as a mouth rinse. Here are the basic guidelines for using hydrogen peroxide during pregnancy:

External use

• For wounds: Hydrogen peroxide can be used to treat minor wounds or cuts. However, a diluted 3% solution should be used to avoid possible skin irritation. The application of hydrogen peroxide should be limited, as frequent use may delay the wound healing process.

• For mouthwash: Hydrogen peroxide is sometimes used to relieve symptoms of canker sores or other inflammatory conditions of the mouth. The mouthwash solution is usually prepared by diluting 3% hydrogen peroxide with water in a 1:1 ratio. It is important not to swallow the solution.

Internal use

• Hydrogen peroxide is not intended for internal use and should not be swallowed, as it may cause serious complications, including irritation or damage to the gastrointestinal tract.

Precautionary measures

• Always consult your doctor before using hydrogen peroxide during pregnancy, especially if you plan to use it for anything other than treating minor wounds.
• Avoid frequent or prolonged use of hydrogen peroxide as it may adversely affect the health of the skin and other tissues.
• Keep hydrogen peroxide out of reach of children and avoid contact with eyes.

Contraindications

1. Inhalation: Inhalation of hydrogen peroxide can cause respiratory irritation, burns, and even chemical pneumonitis (inflammation of the lungs). Avoid inhaling hydrogen peroxide vapors or aerosols.
2. Skin and Eye Contact: Hydrogen peroxide may cause irritation and burns to the skin upon contact. Contact with eyes may cause severe burns and corneal damage. Avoid direct contact with skin and eyes, and in case of accidental contact, rinse with plenty of water.
3. Ingestion: Ingesting large doses of hydrogen peroxide can be dangerous and even fatal. It can cause burns and tissue destruction in the stomach and digestive tract. If hydrogen peroxide is accidentally swallowed, seek immediate medical attention.
4. Special Conditions: The use of hydrogen peroxide may be contraindicated in people with certain health conditions, such as allergic reactions to the substance, as well as in people with burns, wounds, or broken skin.
5. Pregnancy and breastfeeding: The safety of using hydrogen peroxide during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been established. Therefore, use should only be done after consulting a doctor.
6. Children: Hydrogen peroxide may be dangerous for use in children. Use in children should be done under strict adult supervision and with all necessary precautions.

Side effects Hydrogen peroxide

Side effects when used externally:

1. Skin Irritation: Hydrogen peroxide may cause irritation, redness and burning of the skin, especially when higher concentrations are used.
2. White Spots on Skin: When applied to the skin, especially on injured areas, hydrogen peroxide may cause temporary white spots or foaming due to a reaction with blood and tissue.
3. Allergic reactions: Although rare, allergic reactions such as hives, itching, swelling are possible.

Side effects when used in the oral cavity:

1. Irritation of mucous membranes: When used in mouthwashes, hydrogen peroxide may cause irritation or ulceration of the mucous membranes.
2. Peroxide Bleaching: Frequent use of hydrogen peroxide to whiten teeth may cause increased tooth sensitivity and gum irritation.

Side effects if accidentally swallowed:

1. Gastrointestinal Effects: Swallowing hydrogen peroxide, especially in concentrated form, can cause vomiting, stomach burning, and other serious gastrointestinal problems.
2. Oxygen embolism: Highly concentrated hydrogen peroxide can break down into water and oxygen in the stomach, potentially releasing large amounts of oxygen and risking oxygen embolism.

Overdose

1. Vomiting and Nausea: Hydrogen peroxide, if swallowed in large quantities, may cause vomiting and nausea.
2. Digestive Disorders: Hydrogen peroxide in large doses can cause abdominal pain, diarrhea and other digestive disorders.
3. Respiratory problems: If hydrogen peroxide enters the lungs, there is a risk of oxygen bubbles forming in the blood, which can lead to serious breathing problems.
4. Burns: Hydrogen peroxide may cause burns if it comes into contact with skin or mucous membranes.
5. Damage to internal organs: If hydrogen peroxide is consumed in large quantities, there may be a risk of damage to internal organs such as the liver and kidneys.

Interactions with other drugs

Hydrogen peroxide interactions with other drugs are usually limited, as its main use is as a local antiseptic in the treatment of wounds and burns. However, interactions with certain substances may cause unwanted effects or changes in the effectiveness of drugs.

For example, hydrogen peroxide can react with metal catalysts or certain medications, causing hydrogen peroxide to decompose, releasing oxygen and heat. This can be dangerous, especially if used incorrectly.