hypochlorous acid solution

Hypochlorous acid solution (active chlorine) is a topical antimicrobial and antiseptic agent being investigated in clinical trials, such as the ACTCU trial by Medisch Centrum Leeuwarden, for the treatment of chronic leg ulcers. Hypochlorous acid (HOCl) is a weak acid naturally produced by human neutrophils during the respiratory burst as part of the innate immune response. As an exogenous therapeutic, it acts as a broad-spectrum antimicrobial that penetrates microbial cell walls and membranes to oxidize essential biomolecules (including proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids), thereby destroying bacterial, viral, and fungal pathogens without causing cytotoxic effects on human keratinocytes or fibroblasts. This selective activity helps reduce bioburden and biofilm formation in chronic wounds, alleviating pain and promoting the body's natural reepithelialization and healing processes.

Other names

active chlorinehypochlorous acidHOCl