Hydrogen peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide (hydrogen peroxide) is a chemical compound with the formula H₂O₂. It is a colorless liquid with strong oxidizing properties, which makes it useful in many fields, including medicine, cosmetology and industry.

Using hydrogen peroxide:

1. Medical purposes:

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

2. Cosmetology:

   • In cosmetology, hydrogen peroxide is used to lighten hair, as it can destroy pigments in the 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.
   • 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 eyes.
• Use in diluted form: Uncontrolled use of concentrated solutions may result in skin burns and other injuries.
• Storage: Hydrogen peroxide should be stored in a dark container away from light and heat as it decomposes in the presence of light and heat.

Hydrogen peroxide is a powerful and useful substance, but it requires careful handling and compliance with 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 of bacteria and germs.
2. Local 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 to rinse the mouth and whiten teeth.
4. Toothache relief: Diluted hydrogen peroxide can be used to relieve tooth pain 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 or treat boils or acne.

Release form

1. Solution for external use: Hydrogen peroxide may be available in various concentrations of solution for external 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 in the form of a gel or cream for topical use on the skin to treat acne, blackheads, or other skin problems.
4. Teeth Whitening Strips: Hydrogen peroxide may also be the 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 aerosol or powder.

Pharmacodynamics

1. Antiseptic effect: Hydrogen peroxide, upon contact with skin or a wound, disintegrates, releasing atomic oxygen. This oxygen is highly reactive and is able to oxidize bacterial cells, viruses and fungi, which leads to their death. The effectiveness of hydrogen peroxide as an antiseptic lies in 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 impurities from the wound. This promotes faster healing, reduces the risk of scarring and keeps the wound clean.
3. Deodorizing effect: Hydrogen peroxide is also used to eliminate unpleasant odors, as it destroys odor-causing organic compounds due to its oxidizing properties.

Pharmacokinetics

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

Dosing and administration

For the treatment of wounds:

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 rub the wound to remove dead tissue and debris.
   • Use hydrogen peroxide once when initially treating a wound, as frequent use may delay healing.

For mouth rinse:

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 mouthwash.
   • Rinse your mouth for 30-60 seconds, then spit out the solution.
   • Use 1-2 times a day as needed, especially if you have ulcers or inflammation in the mouth.

For earwax:

1. Concentration:

   • Use 3% hydrogen peroxide solution.

2. Application:

   • Tilt your head so that the affected ear is pointing upward.
   • Put 5-10 drops into your ear and wait a few minutes.
   • Turn your head to the opposite side to allow the solution and softened wax to drain from the ear.
   • Use as needed, but not more than once a week.

Warnings:

• Hydrogen peroxide may cause irritation or temporary foaming if it comes into 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 or get it in your eyes.
• Store hydrogen peroxide in a cool, dark place out of the reach of children.

Use Hydrogen peroxide during pregnancy

Hydrogen peroxide can be safe to use during pregnancy if you take proper precautions and consult your doctor. Hydrogen peroxide is commonly used externally for wound cleansing, antiseptic treatment, and as a mouth rinse. Here are the basic recommendations for the use of hydrogen peroxide by pregnant women:

External use

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

• Mouth rinse: Hydrogen peroxide is sometimes used to relieve symptoms of stomatitis or other inflammatory diseases of the mouth. The rinse 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 for internal use and should not be ingested as it may cause serious complications, including irritation or damage to the gastrointestinal tract.

Precautions

• 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 away from children and away from eye contact.

Contraindications

1. Inhalation: Inhalation of hydrogen peroxide can cause respiratory irritation, burns, and even chemical pneumonitis (pneumonia). Avoid inhaling hydrogen peroxide vapors or aerosols.
2. Skin and Eye Contact: Hydrogen peroxide may cause skin irritation and burns upon contact. Contact with the eyes can 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: Ingestion of large doses of hydrogen peroxide can be dangerous and even fatal. This can cause burns and tissue destruction in the stomach and digestive tract. If hydrogen peroxide is accidentally ingested, 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, or in people with burns, wounds, or damaged skin.
5. Pregnancy and breastfeeding: The safety of using hydrogen peroxide during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been established. Therefore, use should only be carried out after consultation with a doctor.
6. Children: Hydrogen peroxide may be dangerous for use in children. Use in children should be carried out under strict adult supervision and in compliance with all precautions.

Side effects Hydrogen peroxide

Side effects for external use:

1. Skin Irritation: Hydrogen peroxide may cause irritation, redness and burning of the skin, especially when used in higher concentrations.
2. White spots on the skin: When applied to the skin, especially if damaged, hydrogen peroxide may cause a temporary appearance of white spots or foam 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. Mucous membrane irritation: When used in mouthwash solutions, hydrogen peroxide may cause irritation or ulceration of the mucous membrane.
2. Peroxide whitening: Frequent use of hydrogen peroxide to whiten teeth can lead to increased tooth sensitivity and gum irritation.

Side effects if accidentally swallowed:

1. Gastrointestinal Effects: Ingesting hydrogen peroxide, especially in concentrated form, can cause vomiting, stomach burning, and other serious gastrointestinal problems.
2. Oxygen embolism: Highly concentrated hydrogen peroxide can be broken down into water and oxygen in the stomach, potentially releasing large amounts of oxygen and the risk of 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. Breathing 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 in contact with skin or mucous membranes.
5. Internal organ damage: 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

The interactions of hydrogen peroxide with other drugs are usually limited, since its main use is a local antiseptic effect in the treatment of wounds and burns. However, when interacting with certain substances, unwanted effects or changes in the effectiveness of the drugs may occur.

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