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Sodium hypochlorite topical

Generic name: sodium hypochlorite topical [ SOE-dee-um-HYE-poe-KLOR-ite ]
Brand names: Anasept, Anasept Cleanser, Dakins Full Strength Solution, Di-Dak-Sol, Hysept, ... show all 11 brands
Dosage forms: topical gel (0.057%), topical liquid (0.057%), topical solution (0.0125%; 0.125%; 0.25%; 0.5%)
Drug class: Antiseptic and germicides

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Jun 17, 2024. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is sodium hypochlorite topical?

Sodium hypochlorite topical is an antibiotic that fights bacteria.

Sodium hypochlorite topical is used to treat or prevent infections caused by cuts or abrasions, skin ulcers, pressure ulcers, diabetic foot ulcers, or surgery.

Sodium hypochlorite topical may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Sodium hypochlorite topical side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Sodium hypochlorite topical may cause serious side effects. Stop using sodium hypochlorite topical and call your doctor at once if you have:

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Warnings

You should not use sodium hypochlorite topical if you are sensitive to chlorine products (such as bleach).

Before taking this medicine

You should not use sodium hypochlorite topical if you are allergic to it, or if you are sensitive to chlorine products (such as bleach).

FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether sodium hypochlorite topical will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant.

It is not known whether sodium hypochlorite topical passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I use sodium hypochlorite topical?

Follow all directions on your prescription label. Do not use sodium hypochlorite topical in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

Apply or pour this medicine over the affected skin area.

To treat a skin wound or ulcer, apply sodium hypochlorite topical by pouring it over the wound. You may also soak a piece of gauze dressing and apply the gauze to the wound. Follow your doctor's directions about how long to leave the gauze in place over the wound.

You can apply petroleum jelly (Vaseline) to the skin around the skin wound or affected area, to keep the medicine from getting onto healthy skin.

Store at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light. Do not freeze. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use.

Betadine, ethanol topical, iodine topical, Nozin, Clinidine, silver nitrate topical

What happens if I miss a dose?

Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

An overdose of sodium hypochlorite topical is not expected to be dangerous. Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222 if anyone has accidentally swallowed the medication.

What should I avoid while using sodium hypochlorite topical?

Avoid getting sodium hypochlorite topical on your clothing or bed linens. Sodium hypochlorite topical may bleach colored fabric.

What other drugs will affect sodium hypochlorite topical?

It is not likely that other drugs you take orally or inject will have an effect on topically applied sodium hypochlorite. But many drugs can interact with each other. Tell each of your health care providers about all medicines you use, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Does sodium hypochlorite topical interact with my other drugs?

Enter medications to view a detailed interaction report using our Drug Interaction Checker.

Further information

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.