polihexanide

Polihexanide (polyhexamethylene biguanide, PHMB) is a cationic polymer and broad-spectrum antiseptic used primarily for disinfection and wound care. It acts by binding to negatively charged phospholipids in bacterial cell membranes, increasing membrane permeability and causing cell death. This mechanism impedes the development of resistant bacterial strains while maintaining low toxicity to human cells due to selective interaction with microbial membranes. Polihexanide is effective against a wide range of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, fungi (including Candida spp. and Aspergillus spp.), biofilm-forming organisms, chlamydiae, mycoplasma, and some viruses. Clinically, it is used for chronic wound management (such as diabetic foot ulcers), burn wounds, surgical site irrigation/disinfection, post-operative dressings, minor incisions antisepsis, catheterization procedures, first aid applications, surface disinfection in healthcare settings as well as treatment of Acanthamoeba keratitis via ophthalmic preparations. It is also found in contact lens solutions and personal care products[1][3][4][5][7].

Brand names

AkantiorProtosanBaquacilPurista

Other names

polyhexanidepolyhexamethylene biguanide