COOPERS MILKING SALVE
DICHLOROPHENE BP
What it does
Dichlorophene is an antifungal medication used primarily to treat fungal infections on the skin.
Commonly used for: fungal skin infections, tinea (ringworm), athlete's foot (tinea pedis)
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Source: Pharmacy and Poisons Board · fetched 2026-01-28 21:21:23 · updated 2026-07-20 09:04:40
About this medicine
Dichlorophene is an antifungal medication used primarily to treat fungal infections on the skin.
What it treats
- fungal skin infections
- tinea (ringworm)
- athlete's foot (tinea pedis)
How it works
It works by stopping the growth of fungi, helping to eliminate the infection.
Who it's for
This medicine is for individuals suffering from skin fungal infections.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
Clinical monograph: dichlorophene
BNF-referencedDichlorophene is an organic compound used primarily as an antiseptic and disinfectant. It exhibits antimicrobial properties, making it effective against a range of bacteria and fungi. Its chemical structure consists of a biphenyl moiety with two chlorine atoms and a hydroxyl group, which contributes to its pharmacological activity.
Indications
- Topical antiseptic
- Disinfectant for skin
- Treatment of superficial skin infections
Dosage
Children: Refer to the BNF for Children for specific dosing information.
Adults: Refer to the BNF for specific dosing information.
Mechanism of action
Dichlorophene exerts its antimicrobial effect by disrupting the integrity of microbial cell membranes and interfering with cellular processes. It is thought to inhibit certain enzymes involved in the synthesis of essential cellular components, leading to cell death.
Pharmacodynamics
Dichlorophene demonstrates broad-spectrum antibacterial and antifungal activity. Its effectiveness against a variety of pathogens is attributed to its ability to penetrate microbial cell walls, causing damage to cellular structures and ultimately resulting in cytotoxicity.
Pharmacokinetics
Dichlorophene is absorbed through the skin and mucous membranes. Once absorbed, it is distributed throughout the body and metabolized predominantly in the liver. The elimination half-life of dichlorophene is variable, with metabolites excreted mainly in urine. Due to its lipophilic nature, it may accumulate in fatty tissues.
Pregnancy
There is limited data on the use of dichlorophene in pregnancy. It should only be used if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.
Breast-feeding
Dichlorophene is not recommended during breastfeeding due to the lack of data on its excretion in human milk.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place, away from light.
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.
Molecular reference: dichlorophene
PubChem CID 3037Molecular formula: C13H10Cl2O2
Source: PubChem (NCBI) · pathways from PathBank, Reactome, WikiPathways & PharmGKB.