Hyperoxi

Indications

Hydrogen peroxide solution is a mild antiseptic and cleaning agent. The usual 3% solution (also called 10 volume) is used to clean minor cuts, scrapes and wounds, and to help loosen dried blood and dirt. Diluted, it is used as a mouthwash or gargle for mouth ulcers, gum inflammation and mouth hygiene. It is also used to soften ear wax, and in denture cleaning.

How It Works

When it touches skin, blood or tissue, it breaks down into water and oxygen, producing foam. The oxygen and foaming action kill some germs and lift away dirt, pus and dead tissue.

Dosage and Administration

For external use only. Do not swallow.

• Minor wounds: apply the 3% solution to the area with clean cotton or gauze, allow it to foam, then rinse with clean water. Use once or twice a day for a few days only.
• Mouthwash or gargle: mix 1 part of 3% solution with 1 part water (to make about 1.5%), rinse or gargle for about 1 minute, then spit out. Do not swallow. Use up to 3 times a day for no more than 7 days unless a dentist or doctor advises.
• Ear wax: only on medical advice, as directed; a few drops of a suitably diluted solution are put in the ear and allowed to bubble, then drained.

Stronger solutions (above 6%) are corrosive and must be diluted correctly before any use on the body. Children: use only under adult supervision; young children should not use it as a mouthwash.

Interactions

No important interactions with medicines taken by mouth are known. Do not mix it with other antiseptics, iodine products or household cleaners on the same area, as this may cause irritation or reduce the effect.

Contraindications

• Deep wounds, puncture wounds, animal bites, serious burns, or wounds in closed body cavities, where trapped oxygen can be dangerous.
• Use in the ear if the eardrum is damaged or perforated, or there is ear discharge or pain, unless a doctor advises it.
• Allergy or sensitivity to hydrogen peroxide.
• Use in the eyes.

Side Effects

Stinging when applied, temporary whitening of the skin, redness or irritation. Repeated use on wounds may slow healing. As a mouthwash it can cause mouth irritation and, with long use, temporary changes in the tongue's surface or tooth sensitivity. Get urgent medical help if it is swallowed (especially stronger solutions) and causes vomiting, chest or stomach pain, or difficulty breathing; if it gets in the eye and pain or blurred vision continues after rinsing; or if there is severe swelling, blistering or a serious allergic reaction.

Pregnancy and Lactation

Use of the 3% solution on the skin or as a diluted mouthwash, without swallowing, is not expected to cause harm in pregnancy or breastfeeding. Ask a doctor before any other use.

Precautions and Warnings

Check the strength on the label before use. Avoid contact with the eyes; if it splashes in, rinse with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes. Do not use on large areas or for long periods. It can bleach hair and fabrics. See a doctor if a wound is deep, does not heal, or shows signs of infection such as spreading redness, warmth, swelling or pus.

Overdose

Swallowing a small amount of 3% solution may cause mouth and throat irritation, stomach upset and vomiting. Swallowing larger amounts or stronger solutions can be dangerous. Do not make the person vomit; rinse the mouth and seek medical help immediately.

Therapeutic Class

Antiseptic and disinfectant (oxidising agent).

Storage

Store in a cool place, ideally below 25°C, in the tightly closed original container, protected from light and heat. Keep out of the reach of children. Do not use if the solution has lost its fizz when applied, as it may have lost strength.