Hexamidine

Hexamidine is a synthetic diamidine compound primarily used as an antiseptic and disinfectant. It exhibits broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, fungi, and protozoa. Its mechanism of action involves disrupting the cell membranes of microorganisms, leading to cell death, and it may also inhibit the synthesis of nucleic acids. Originally synthesized in 1939 by May & Baker as a trypanocide, Hexamidine is now widely utilized in topical medications, personal care products, antiseptic solutions, wound dressings, and ophthalmic solutions for various indications, including skin infections, acne, rosacea, seborrheic dermatitis, and Acanthamoeba keratitis.

Brand names

HexomedineDesomedine

Other names

Hexamidine diisethionateHexamidine isethionateHexamidinumHexamidinHexamidina4,4'-[Hexane-1,6-diylbis(oxy)]di(benzene-1-carboximidamide)4-[6-(4-carbamimidoylphenoxy)hexoxy]benzamidine