Antiseptics: What They Do, Medicines
Antiseptics are liquids or creams put on the skin to reduce germs. They are used on minor cuts and scrapes or before a procedure. They are for external use only. Deep, dirty or bitten wounds need a doctor, not just an antiseptic.
Pharmacist review in progress. This page is based on the sources listed below and is being checked by our registered pharmacist.
How do Antiseptics work?
Antiseptics damage the cells of germs on the surface of the skin, so fewer remain to cause infection. Povidone-iodine releases iodine, which is the active germ-killing part.
Active ingredients of this type
These active ingredients belong to Antiseptics. They are listed A to Z.
- Povidone-iodine: Povidone-iodine is an antiseptic that is put on the skin to reduce germs.
Sources
- Cuts and grazes. NHS (UK)
- Povidone iodine solution, first aid antiseptic: OTC drug label. DailyMed, US National Library of Medicine
- ATC/DDD Index: D08A antiseptics and disinfectants. WHO Collaborating Centre for Drug Statistics Methodology