Hydrogen Peroxide: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing - WebMD (2024)

Uses

Hydrogen peroxide is a mild antiseptic used on the skin to prevent infection of minor cuts, scrapes, and burns. It may also be used as a mouth rinse to help remove mucus or to relieve minor mouth irritation (such as due to canker/cold sores, gingivitis). This product works by releasing oxygen when it is applied to the affected area. The release of oxygen causes foaming, which helps to remove dead skin and clean the area.This product should not be used to treat deep wounds, animal bites, or serious burns.

How to use Hydrogen Peroxide Solution, Non-

Follow all directions on the product package. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Do not use in the eyes or apply over large areas of skin.

If you are using this product on the skin, clean the affected area before use. Apply a small amount of product on the affected area, usually 1 to 3 times daily or as directed by your doctor. If you apply a bandage after using this product, let the area dry first.

If you are using this product as a mouth rinse, mix with an equal amount of water before using. Swish in the mouth over the affected area for at least 1 minute, then spit out. Do not swallow this product. Rinse up to 4 times daily or as directed by your dentist or doctor.

Use this product regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same time(s) each day.

Tell your doctor if your condition does not improve in 7 days or if it worsens. If you think you may have a serious medical problem, get medical help right away.

Side Effects

Redness, stinging, or irritation at the application site may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, contact your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

If your doctor has directed you to use this product, remember that your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

Stop using this medication and tell your doctor if you have signs of a skin infection (such as heat, tenderness, pus).

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

In the US -

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.

In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Precautions

Before using hydrogen peroxide, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

This product is safe to use during pregnancy.

It is unlikely that this product passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Interactions

Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.

Does Hydrogen Peroxide Solution, Non- interact with other drugs you are taking?

Enter your medication into the WebMD interaction checker

Overdose

This medicine may be harmful if swallowed. If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center.

Notes

Keep all medical and lab appointments.

Missed Dose

If you are using this product on a regular schedule and miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Use your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Refer to storage information printed on the package. If you have any questions about storage, ask your pharmacist. Keep all medications away from children and pets.

Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.

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Selected from data included with permission and copyrighted by First Databank, Inc. This copyrighted material has been downloaded from a licensed data provider and is not for distribution, except as may be authorized by the applicable terms of use.

CONDITIONS OF USE: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment.

As an expert in pharmacology and healthcare, my extensive knowledge in the field allows me to provide comprehensive insights into the usage, precautions, and potential interactions associated with hydrogen peroxide. With a solid understanding of the chemical properties and therapeutic applications of hydrogen peroxide, I can guide you through the information provided in the article.

Hydrogen Peroxide: An Overview

Hydrogen peroxide, chemically represented as H2O2, is a versatile compound with various applications. In the context of the provided article, it serves as a mild antiseptic used topically on the skin to prevent infection in minor cuts, scrapes, and burns. Additionally, it can be employed as a mouth rinse to address issues such as mucus removal and relief from mouth irritations, including canker sores and gingivitis.

Mechanism of Action: The key to hydrogen peroxide's effectiveness lies in its ability to release oxygen when applied to the affected area. This oxygen release results in foaming, facilitating the removal of dead skin and cleaning of the wounded or irritated area.

Usage Instructions: Following the usage instructions is crucial for optimal results and safety. Users are advised to apply hydrogen peroxide as directed on the product package. When using it on the skin, the affected area should be cleaned before application. The frequency of application is typically 1 to 3 times daily, and if a bandage is applied afterward, the area should be allowed to dry first.

As a mouth rinse, hydrogen peroxide should be mixed with an equal amount of water before use. Users are instructed to swish it in the mouth over the affected area for at least 1 minute, avoiding swallowing. The recommended frequency for mouth rinsing is up to 4 times daily, as directed by a dentist or doctor.

Precautions: While hydrogen peroxide is generally safe for use, precautions are essential. It should not be used for deep wounds, animal bites, or serious burns. Avoid applying it in the eyes or over large areas of the skin. Users are also advised to consult their doctor or pharmacist if they have any questions.

Individuals allergic to hydrogen peroxide or those with other allergies should exercise caution and consult with their healthcare provider. The product's safety during pregnancy is established, and it is unlikely to pass into breast milk.

Side Effects and Allergic Reactions: Common side effects may include redness, stinging, or irritation at the application site. If these effects persist or worsen, medical advice should be sought. Serious allergic reactions are rare but may include symptoms such as rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing.

Interactions: Understanding potential drug interactions is crucial. Users should keep a list of all products, including prescription, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products, and share it with their healthcare providers to prevent adverse effects.

Overdose: In case of overdose, characterized by symptoms like passing out or difficulty breathing, immediate medical attention is required. Local poison control centers should be contacted, and emergency services may be needed.

Storage and Disposal: Storage information, as printed on the package, should be followed. Proper disposal of the product when expired or no longer needed is essential, and users are encouraged to consult their pharmacist or local waste disposal company for guidance.

By sharing this information, I aim to empower users with the knowledge necessary for the safe and effective use of hydrogen peroxide. If you have any specific questions or concerns, feel free to ask.

Hydrogen Peroxide: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing - WebMD (2024)
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