ATC Group: S01AX Other antiinfectives

Bibrocathol is a bismuth-containing substance which acts as antiseptic, adstringent and secretion inhibitng agent on mucous membranes and wounds. The mechanism of action is explained by its phenolic molecular structure consisting of tetrabromopyrocatechol and bismuth hydroxide that causes the precipitation of proteins and the shrinking of superficial layers of tissue. These activities result in the formation of a protective membrane against pathogenic invasion and non-specifically inhibit inflammation and secretion.

Chlorhexidine is an antimicrobial agent, active against a broad spectrum of Gram-positive and Gram-negative organisms, yeasts, fungi, opportunistic anaerobes and aerobes. Chlorhexidine is mainly a “membrane-acting” agent that destroys the outer membrane of the bacteria. It is inactive on bacterial spores unless the temperatures are high.

Dibrompropamidine is a member of the aromatic diamidine group of compounds, which possess bacteriostatic properties against a wide range of fungi and bacteria. These diamidines exert antibacterial action against pyrogenic cocci, antibiotic resistant staphylococci and some gram-negative bacilli. The activity of the diamidines is retained in the presence of organic matter such as pus and blood.

Polihexanide is a broad-spectrum antiseptic with excellent tolerance and a low-risk profile. The physicochemical action on the bacterial envelope prevents or impedes the development of resistant bacterial strains. Thus, polihexanide is particularly suitable and useful in the struggle against multidrug-resistant bacteria.

Povidone iodine is an iodophore that has an established use as a broad-spectrum antiseptic, mainly for the treatment of contaminated wounds and for the preoperative preparation of the skin, mucous membranes and the ocular surface. The organic complex contains approximately 10% of active available iodine. Solutions of povidone iodine gradually release iodine to exert an antimicrobial effect against bacteria, fungi, viruses, and spores. Although povidone iodine is less potent than preparations containing free iodine, it is also less toxic.

Propamidine is a member of the aromatic diamidine group of compounds which possess bacteriostatic properties against a wide range of organisms. These diamidines exert antibacterial action against pyrogenic cocci, antibiotic resistant staphylococci and some Gram-negative bacilli, the activity of the diamidines being retained in the presence of organic matter such as tissue fluids, pus and serum.

Zinc blocks the intestinal absorption of copper from the diet and the reabsorption of endogenously secreted copper. Zinc induces the production of metallothionein in the enterocyte, a protein that binds copper thereby preventing its transfer into the blood. The bound copper is then eliminated in the stool following desquamation of the intestinal cells.