phenylmercuric borate

Phenylmercuric borate is an organomercuric compound used as a topical antiseptic and disinfectant. It was widely employed until the 1990s for wound treatment of the skin, mouth, and throat, as well as in disinfectants under brand names such as Merfen Orange. Its antimicrobial action is both bactericidal (against many Gram-positive and Gram-negative species) and fungicidal (notably against Candida albicans and Aspergillus niger). The mechanism involves rapid incorporation into microbial cells—particularly associating with ribosomal proteins—disrupting cellular function. Due to its high mercury content and associated toxicity risks (including increased systemic absorption through skin contact), it has largely been replaced by safer alternatives[1][4][5][7].

Brand names

Merfen Orange

Other names

phenylmercuric boratePHB