Antisep

Indications

Dibromopropamidine Isethionate is an antiseptic and antibacterial agent used on the skin and eyes. As a cream it is used to prevent and treat infection in minor cuts, grazes, scratches and minor burns, and for mild infected skin conditions such as impetigo or infected eczema patches. As an eye ointment it is used for minor bacterial infections of the eye and eyelids, such as conjunctivitis and blepharitis.

How It Works

Dibromopropamidine belongs to a group called diamidines. It damages the outer membrane of bacteria and some fungi and amoebae, causing them to leak and die or stop growing. It is active against many common skin bacteria, including Staphylococcus, even in the presence of pus.

Dosage and Administration

Cream: clean the area, then apply a thin layer once or twice daily, or as directed on the label. A light dressing may be used. Eye ointment: apply a small amount inside the lower eyelid once or twice daily, or as directed. Wash hands before and after use. See a doctor if there is no improvement within 2 to 3 days for eyes or about 1 week for skin.

Interactions

No important interactions are known. Do not use other creams or eye products on the same area at the same time unless advised; if you use other eye drops, wait at least 5 minutes and apply the ointment last.

Contraindications

• Allergy to Dibromopropamidine, other diamidines or any ingredient of the product.
• Deep wounds, animal bites, serious burns or large areas of broken skin, unless a doctor advises.

Side Effects

It is usually well tolerated. Local stinging, burning, itching or redness may occur. Eye ointment can blur vision for a short time after use. Rarely, skin allergy (contact dermatitis) develops with repeated use.

Get urgent medical help if you have severe eye pain, sensitivity to light, loss of vision, spreading redness or swelling with fever around a wound, or swelling of the face and difficulty breathing.

Pregnancy and Lactation

Very little is absorbed into the body, so short-term use on small areas is unlikely to cause harm in pregnancy or breastfeeding. Ask a doctor or pharmacist first, and do not apply the cream to the breast before feeding.

Precautions and Warnings

Do not use the skin cream in the eyes; use only a product labelled for the eye. Do not wear contact lenses while treating an eye infection. Avoid long-term use, which may lead to sensitisation or resistant germs. Red, painful eyes with reduced vision need urgent medical review, not self-treatment.

Overdose

Overdose is unlikely with skin or eye use. If a large amount is swallowed, especially by a child, seek medical advice.

Therapeutic Class

Topical antiseptic and antibacterial (diamidine).

Storage

Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children. Discard eye ointment 4 weeks after first opening.