Polyhexanide - safety and efficacy as an antiseptic

BACKGROUND Polyhexamethylene biguanide hydrochloride/polyhexanide/polyaminopropyl biguanide (PHMB) is used as a disinfectant and antiseptic. This article discusses the use of the substance as an antiseptic. We summarise published data on its antimicrobial effect in vitro and its clinical effect and safety when used on skin, wounds and mucosa.MATERIAL AND METHOD A literature search was conducted in PubMed for articles published in the last five years. Articles available as of June 2014 were considered.RESULTS Of 332 articles identified, 27 were included. In vitro studies have demonstrated an antimicrobial effect on Gram-negative bacteria, Gram-positive bacteria and Candida albicans. The clinical studies are small, not well controlled and frequently sponsored by industry. Few adverse effects from the substance were reported.INTERPRETATION Better designed, larger-scale clinical studies of effect and safety are needed in order to give recommendations on the use of polyhexanide on skin, wounds and mucosa.