Products
Octenidine is commercially available in many countries as colorless and colored solutions, gargle solutions, and wound gels (Octenisept, Octeniderm, Octenimed), among others. It has been approved since 1990.
Structure and properties
Octenidine (C36H62N4, Mr = 550.9 g/mol) is present in the drug as octenidine dihydrochloride, a colorless liquid. It is a cationic, surface-active agent. Octenidine is stable between pH 1.6 to 12.2, under light irradiation, and can be steam sterilized up to 130°C. Unlike chlorhexidine, the toxic 4-chloroaniline cannot be released from the molecule.
Effects
Octenidine (ATC D08AX99) is bactericidal against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, fungicidal against yeasts and skin fungi, and effective against lipophilic viruses and hepatitis B virus. The effect occurs quickly, after about one minute, and lasts for a long time. It is based on the interaction of the cation with the negative charges of cell wall and cell membrane components of the microorganisms. Resistance is not known to date.
Indications
For disinfection of the skin and mucous membrane, e.g. before operations in the urogenital and rectal areas, before catheterization of the urethra, in the context of examinations of the uterus. For disinfection of the oral mucosa and for injuries, wounds and suture care. The wound gel is used for moistening and cleaning wounds. Other galenic forms are commercially available.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity
- Octenidine should not be placed in the ear canal, should not enter the eye, and should not be used intraperitoneally.
Full precautions can be found in the drug label.
Interactions
Octenidine should not be applied to the same area of skin with povidone–iodine because it may release iodine radicals that irritate tissues and discolor them brown to purple.
Adverse effects
Possible adverse effects include a mild burning sensation on the skin. When used in the mouth, taste and sensation disturbances may occur. Octenidine has a long-lasting bitter taste. Octenidine is better tolerated compared to other, more toxic disinfectants (e.g., chlorhexidine, povidone–iodine). Octenidine is not absorbed; therefore, systemic side effects are not expected.