sodium oxychlorosene

**Sodium oxychlorosene** is a topical antiseptic and antimicrobial agent, marketed under the brand name **Clorpactin WCS-90**. Chemically, it is a derivative of hydrochloric acid that slowly releases hypochlorous acid when dissolved, similar to related agents such as sodium hypochlorite (bleach) and Dakin’s solution[3]. It exerts a **broad-spectrum bactericidal effect** by diffusion of hypochlorous acid through microbial cell walls, causing oxidation and chlorinization of proteins and enzymes, which leads to microbial cell lysis and solubilization of protoplasmic contents[2][3]. It is active against most microorganisms, including gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, molds, yeasts, viruses, and spores[3]. Sodium oxychlorosene is primarily used as a topical antiseptic, for surgical irrigation, wound management, and as a bladder instillation for treating multidrug resistant urinary tract infections and preventing catheter-associated UTIs[2][3]. It has also been used in genitourinary, ophthalmic, otolaryngologic, proctologic, and skin/soft tissue infections[3]. Notably, it is not approved by the FDA but has been used clinically for over 50 years[3]. The principal mechanism centers on its **oxidizing and chlorinating action**, with minimal systemic absorption and typically low allergenic risk[2].

Brand names

Clorpactin WCS-90

Other names

oxychlorosene