Iodophor + chlorhexidine gluconate

Iodophor + chlorhexidine gluconate is a combination of two antiseptic agents commonly used for skin disinfection and infection control. Iodophors are complexes of iodine with solubilizing agents (such as povidone), which release free iodine slowly and act as broad-spectrum antimicrobial agents by disrupting microbial protein and nucleic acid structure. Chlorhexidine gluconate is a cationic bisbiguanide antiseptic that disrupts bacterial cell membranes, leading to leakage of cellular contents and cell death. This combination is primarily used for preoperative skin preparation, wound cleansing, or hand hygiene in healthcare settings to reduce the risk of infection by targeting a wide range of bacteria, fungi, and some viruses[2][3]. The combination leverages the rapid action of chlorhexidine with the persistent activity provided by iodophors.