Emedics Hydrogen Peroxide 6%
Hydrogen Peroxide
What it does
Hydrogen is a chemical element often used in various applications but is not a conventional medicine. It is important to understand its uses and safety.
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Source: Tanzania Medicines and Medical Devices Authority · fetched 2026-03-11 23:48:22 · updated 2026-05-04 08:01:29
About hydrogen
Hydrogen is a chemical element often used in various applications but is not a conventional medicine. It is important to understand its uses and safety.
How it works
Hydrogen is a basic element and does not have a direct medicinal effect like traditional drugs. Its properties are utilized in various scientific and industrial processes.
Who it's for
Hydrogen is not prescribed for specific medical conditions as it is not classified as a medicine.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
About peroxide
Peroxide is commonly used as a disinfectant and bleaching agent. It helps kill bacteria and can be used to clean wounds or whiten teeth.
What it treats
- wound cleaning
- bleaching agent for teeth
- disinfecting surfaces
How it works
Peroxide releases oxygen when it comes into contact with tissue, which helps to kill germs and promote healing.
Who it's for
It is suitable for adults and children, but should be used carefully under supervision.
Cautions
- • Avoid contact with eyes, as it can cause irritation.
- • Do not swallow, as it can be harmful if ingested.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
Clinical monograph: hydrogen
BNF-referencedHydrogen (H2) is a colorless, odorless gas that has garnered significant interest for its potential therapeutic effects, particularly due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Research suggests that hydrogen-rich water may have beneficial effects on vascular health and could serve as an anti-aging agent by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in endothelial cells. Its mechanism of action involves the activation of the Nrf2 pathway, which contributes to the protective effects against cellular senescence and other forms of oxidative damage.
Indications
- Oxidative stress-related conditions
- Inflammatory conditions
- Potential anti-aging applications
- Vascular health enhancement
Dosage
Children: Refer to specific product formulations and guidelines, as dosing can vary based on the concentration of hydrogen in the product used.
Adults: Refer to specific product formulations and guidelines, as dosing can vary based on the concentration of hydrogen in the product used.
Mechanism of action
Molecular hydrogen acts primarily as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent. It is believed to exert its beneficial effects through the activation of the Nrf2 pathway, which enhances the expression of antioxidant enzymes and protects cells from oxidative stress. Hydrogen-rich environments have been shown to mitigate the harmful effects of various toxins on human umbilical vein endothelial cells, thereby promoting vascular health and longevity.
Pharmacodynamics
Hydrogen's pharmacodynamic properties are linked to its role as a potent antioxidant, which reduces reactive oxygen species (ROS) and modulates inflammation. It has been documented to counteract cellular senescence in endothelial cells, thereby maintaining vascular integrity and promoting overall health. The long-lasting effects of hydrogen exposure can be observed even after its concentration in the medium has decreased, suggesting a sustained activation of protective cellular pathways.
Pharmacokinetics
Hydrogen is a gaseous molecule that diffuses rapidly across biological membranes. Its absorption and distribution in the body are influenced by the method of administration, with hydrogen-rich water being a common delivery form. Once in the bloodstream, hydrogen is quickly utilized by tissues, and its concentration diminishes rapidly, with a half-life that can vary based on conditions. The elimination of hydrogen primarily occurs via exhalation, making it a non-toxic molecule with a favorable safety profile.
Pregnancy
Hydrogen is generally considered safe during pregnancy, but it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider for specific recommendations.
Breast-feeding
Hydrogen is considered safe during breastfeeding, but as with any substance, it is recommended to discuss with a healthcare provider.
Storage
Hydrogen should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources, in appropriate gas cylinders designed for compressed gases.
Formulations
- Hydrogen gas (H2)
- Hydrogen-rich water
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.
Clinical monograph: hydrogenphosphate
BNF-referencedHydrogenphosphate (HPO4^2-) is an inorganic phosphate compound that plays a crucial role in various biological processes, including energy metabolism and cellular signaling. It is a key component in the formation of nucleotides, nucleic acids, and phospholipids, and is essential for ATP production and cellular energy transfer.
Mechanism of action
Hydrogenphosphate acts as a substrate for various enzymatic reactions where phosphate groups are transferred or incorporated into organic molecules. It is involved in metabolic pathways such as nicotine biosynthesis and NAD/NADH cycling, facilitating biochemical reactions that are vital for cellular function.
Pharmacodynamics
Hydrogenphosphate is crucial for maintaining cellular homeostasis. It regulates acid-base balance and is involved in energy metabolism. The phosphate groups it provides are integral to the structure and function of ATP, which is the primary energy currency of the cell. Additionally, hydrogenphosphate influences signal transduction pathways through phosphorylation and dephosphorylation processes.
Pharmacokinetics
Hydrogenphosphate is readily absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract and distributed throughout the body. Its elimination primarily occurs through renal excretion, where it is filtered and reabsorbed by the kidneys. The balance of hydrogenphosphate levels is tightly regulated by various physiological mechanisms to ensure proper metabolic function.
Pregnancy
There is limited information regarding the safety of hydrogenphosphate in pregnancy. Consult relevant guidelines and consider potential risks versus benefits.
Breast-feeding
Data on the excretion of hydrogenphosphate in human milk are not available. Caution is advised.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Ensure containers are tightly closed.
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.
Clinical monograph: peroxide
BNF-referencedHydrogen peroxide is a chemical compound with the molecular formula H2O2, commonly used for its antiseptic properties. It acts as a weak antibacterial agent and is primarily utilized as a wound cleanser and deodorant. Its mechanism relies on the production of free hydroxyl radicals, which lead to oxidative damage in microorganisms. While its antibacterial activity is relatively weak, its effervescence helps mechanically remove debris from wounds, enhancing its overall effectiveness in reducing bacterial load.
Indications
- Topical antiseptic for minor cuts and abrasions
- Wound cleansing
- Deodorizing agent
Dosage
Children: For paediatric use, hydrogen peroxide can be applied topically as a 3% solution. Consult the BNF for Children for detailed dosing guidance.
Adults: Hydrogen peroxide is typically applied topically as a 3% solution. It can be used to cleanse the affected area one to three times daily. For specific dosing, refer to the BNF.
Mechanism of action
The production of free hydroxyl radicals in the Fenton reaction is thought to be the basis of the biocidal actions of hydrogen peroxide. Free radicals lead to oxidative damage to proteins and membrane lipids in vivo. The release of nascent oxygen upon contact with catalase-containing tissues exerts antibacterial action, while effervescence mechanically loosens tissue debris and pus. Hydrogen peroxide is particularly effective on wounds, denuded areas, and mucous membranes.
Pharmacodynamics
Hydrogen peroxide exhibits antimicrobial properties against a wide range of microorganisms, including resistant forms such as bacterial spores and protozoal cysts. It acts as an oxidative biocide, generating free radicals that induce damage to DNA, proteins, and membrane lipids via oxidation. Its mechanical action of effervescence assists in the removal of tissue debris, which is a crucial aspect of its effectiveness in wound management.
Pharmacokinetics
Hydrogen peroxide's pharmacokinetics are not extensively detailed in the literature, but it is known to have poor tissue and wound penetration. The presence of reactive organic materials, such as pus and blood, diminishes its efficacy. The mechanical action of effervescence is significant in enhancing its antibacterial effects, particularly in contaminated wounds.
Adverse effects
- Skin irritation
- Burning sensation
- Allergic reactions
Precautions
- Avoid contact with eyes and mucous membranes
- Use with caution in patients with a history of hypersensitivity
- Do not apply to deep or puncture wounds
Pregnancy
Hydrogen peroxide should be used in pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Consult a healthcare provider before use.
Breast-feeding
Caution is advised when using hydrogen peroxide while breastfeeding. Consult a healthcare provider for guidance.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place away from light and out of reach of children. Keep in tightly closed containers.
Formulations
- Topical solution
- Ointment
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: hydrogen
PubChem CID 783Molecular formula: H2
Mechanism of action
Substantial evidence indicates that molecular hydrogen (H2) has beneficial vascular effects because of its antioxidant and/or anti-inflammatory effects. Thus, hydrogen-rich water may prove to be an effective anti-aging drink. This study examined the effects of H2 on endothelial senescence and clarified the mechanisms involved. Hydrogen-rich medium was produced by a high-purity hydrogen gas generator. Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were incubated with 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) for various time periods in normal or hydrogen-rich medium. The baseline H2concentration in hydrogen-rich medium was 0.55 +/- 0.07 mmol/L. This concentration gradually decreased, and H2 was almost undetectable in medium after 12 hr. At 24 hr after TCDD exposure, HUVECs treated with TCDD exhibited increased 8OHdG and acetyl-p53 expression, decreased nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD(+))/NADH ratio, impaired Sirt1 activity, and enhanced senescence-associated beta-galactosidase. However, HUVECs incubated in hydrogen-rich medium did not exhibit these TCDD-induced changes accompanying Nrf2 activation, which was observed even after H2 was undetectable in the medium. Chrysin, an inhibitor of Nrf2, abolished the protective effects of H2 on HUVECs. H2 has long-lasting antioxidant and anti-aging effects on vascular endothelial cells through the Nrf2 pathway, even after transient exposure to H2. Hydrogen-rich water may thus be a functional drink that increases longevity. /Hydrogen-rich water/ Amyloid beta (Abeta) peptides are identified /as a/ cause of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease (AD). Previous evidence suggests Abeta-induced neurotoxicity is linked to the stimulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. The accumulation of Abeta-induced ROS leads to increased mitochondrial dysfunction and triggers apoptotic cell death. This suggests antioxidant therapies may be beneficial for preventing ROS-related diseases such as AD. Recently, hydrogen-rich water (HRW) has been proven effective in treating oxidative stress-induced disorders because of its ROS-scavenging abilities. However, the precise molecular mechanisms whereby HRW prevents neuronal death are still unclear. In the present study, we evaluated the putative pathways by which HRW protects against Abeta-induced cytotoxicity /in SK-N-MC cells/. Our results indicated that HRW directly counteracts oxidative damage by neutralizing excessive ROS, leading to the alleviation of Abeta-induced cell death. In addition, HRW also stimulated AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) in a sirtuin 1 (Sirt1)-dependent pathway, which upregulates forkhead box protein O3a (FoxO3a) downstream antioxidant response and diminishes Abeta-induced mitochondrial potential loss and oxidative stress. Taken together, our findings suggest that HRW may have potential therapeutic value to inhibit Abeta-induced neurotoxicity. /Hydrogen-rich water/ The NLRP3 inflammasome, an intracellular multi-protein complex controlling the maturation of cytokine interleukin-1beta, plays an important role in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammatory cascades. Recently, the production of mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (mtROS) in macrophages stimulated with LPS has been suggested to act as a trigger during the process of NLRP3 inflammasome activation that can be blocked by some mitochondria-targeted antioxidants. Known as a ROS scavenger, molecular hydrogen (H2) has been shown to possess therapeutic benefit on LPS-induced inflammatory damage in many animal experiments. Due to the unique molecular structure, H2 can easily target the mitochondria, suggesting that H2 is a potential antagonist of mtROS-dependent NLRP3 inflammasome activation. Here we have showed that, in mouse macrophages, H2 exhibited substantial inhibitory activity against LPS-initiated NLRP3 inflammasome activation by scavenging mtROS. Moreover, the elimination of mtROS by H2 resultantly inhibited mtROS-mediated NLRP3 deubi
Biological pathways
Source: PubChem (NCBI) · pathways from PathBank, Reactome, WikiPathways & PharmGKB.
Molecular reference: hydrogenphosphate
PubChem CID 3681305Molecular formula: HO4P-2
Biological pathways
Source: PubChem (NCBI) · pathways from PathBank, Reactome, WikiPathways & PharmGKB.
Molecular reference: peroxide
PubChem CID 784Molecular formula: H2O2
Mechanism of action
The production of free hydroxyl radicals in the Fenton reaction is thought to be the basis of biocidal actions of hydrogen peroxide. Free radicals eventually lead to oxidative damage proteins and membrane lipids _in vivo_. The oxidizing radical as the ferryl radical induces DNA oxidation. Hydrogen peroxide topical solution is a weak antibacterial agent, a wound cleanser, and a deodorant. The pharmacologic activity of the drug depends on the release of nascent oxygen which has a powerful oxidizing effect that destroys some microorganisms and chemically alters many organic substances. When hydrogen peroxide topical solution comes in contact with tissues that contain the enzyme catalase, the solution releases oxygen which exerts antibacterial action; the mechanical effect of effervescence loosens tissue debris and pus. The release of nascent oxygen and effervescence is more rapid on wounds, denuded areas, and mucous membranes than on unbroken skin. The presence of reactive organic material such as pus and blood diminishes the efficiency of hydrogen peroxide. The antibacterial activity of hydrogen peroxide is relatively weak and slow and the drug exhibits poor tissue and wound penetration. Hydrogen peroxide's mechanical effect of effervescence and resultant removal of tissue debris is probably a more effective means of reducing the bacterial content of wounds, denuded areas, and mucous membranes than actual antibacterial activity. The drug also appears to have a styptic effect when applied topically to minor wounds. Concentrated solutions of hydrogen peroxide have a bleaching effect on hair and may injure tissue. Increases in the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) are correlated with a decrease in calcineurin (CN) activity under oxidative or neuropathological conditions. However, the molecular mechanism underlying this ROS-mediated CN inactivation remains unclear. Here, we describe a mechanism for the inactivation of CN by hydrogen peroxide. The treatment of mouse primary cortical neuron cells with Abeta(1-42) peptide and hydrogen peroxide triggered the proteolytic cleavage of CN and decreased its enzymatic activity. In addition, hydrogen peroxide was found to cleave CN in different types of cells. Calcium influx was not involved in CN inactivation during hydrogen peroxide-mediated cleavage, but CN cleavage was partially blocked by chloroquine, indicating that an unidentified lysosomal protease is probably involved in its hydrogen peroxide-mediated cleavage. Treatment with hydrogen peroxide triggered CN cleavage at a specific sequence within its catalytic domain, and the cleaved form of CN had no enzymatic ability to dephosphorylate nuclear factor in activated T cells. Thus, our findings suggest a molecular mechanism by which hydrogen peroxide inactivates CN by proteolysis in ROS-related diseases. Matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) is well known to proteolyse both extracellular and intracellular proteins. Reactive oxygen species activate MMP-2 at both transcriptional and post-translational levels, thus MMP-2 activation is considered an early event in oxidative stress injury. Although hydrogen peroxide is widely used to trigger oxidative stress-induced cell death, the type of cell death (apoptosis vs. necrosis) in cardiomyocytes is still controversial depending on the concentration used and the exposure time. We ... investigated the mode of cell death in neonatal rat cardiomyocytes induced by different concentrations (50-500 uM) of hydrogen peroxide at various time intervals after exposure and determined whether MMP-2 is implicated in hydrogen peroxide-induced cardiomyocyte death. Treating cardiomyocytes with hydrogen peroxide led to elevated MMP-2 level/activity with maximal effects seen at 200 uM. Hydrogen peroxide caused necrotic cell death by disrupting the plasmalemma as evidenced by the release of lactate dehydrogenase in a concentration- and time-dependent manner as well as the necrotic cleavage of PARP-1. The absence o
Pharmacodynamics
Hydrogen peroxide exhibits antimicrobial properties against most forms of microorganisms, including dormant forms with known high resistance profiles, such as bacterial spores and protozoal cysts. It acts as an oxidative biocide to generate free radical species to induce DNA, protein and membrane lipid damage via oxidation.
Biological pathways
Source: PubChem (NCBI) · pathways from PathBank, Reactome, WikiPathways & PharmGKB.
This drug in other countries
The same active ingredient registered across other registries we cover - including different brands.
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