Hexachlorophene - miscellaneous drug and its therapeutic uses

DESCRIPTION:

Hexachlorophene also known as Nabac is an organocholrine compound.

Two commercial preparations using hexachlorophene “pHiso Derm & pHiso Hex”, used as antibacterial skin cleansers in the treatment of acne.

MECHANISM OF ACTION:

Hexachlorophene inhibits the membrane –bound part of the electron transport chain, respiratory D-lactate dehydrogenase. It includes leakage, causes protoplast lysis, and inhibits respiration.

It inhibits the bacterial enzymes and (in high concentration) causing   bacterial lysis.

 THERAPEUTIC USES:

•             It is a bacteriostatic cleansing agent, which cleanses the skin the skin & preventing the                        spread of infection and growth of certain bacteria.

•             It is also used in agriculture as a soil fungicide, plant bactericide and acanicide.

 ADVERSE EFFECTS:

•             Dryness

•             Mild scaling

•             Skin redness

•             Skin sensitivity to light

•             Swelling of the skin

•             Seizures (due to sudden abnormal electrical activity in the brain)

•             Irritable behaviours

•             Tightness in the chest

DRUG-DRUG INTERACTION:

Picosulfuric acid + Hexachlorophene = The therapeutic efficacy of sodium picosulfate can be decreased when used in combination with hexachlorophene.

REFERENCE

Tripathi KD, Essential of Medical Pharmacology, 7th edition, Jaypee Brothers (P) LTD. Page No: 897-899.