Antiseptic
an(t)əˈseptik  
Nearby words
Disinfectants
Translated

noun. A substance applied to the body that prevents infection by killing microorganisms or preventing their growth.

 

adjective. Able to kill or prevent the growth of microorganisms.

 

“Commonly used antiseptics are alcohol, Dettol®, and Iodine (e.g. Betadine®).”

 

“Antiseptics are commonly available in a First Aid box. When you get a cut or a wound, you should clean the wound with normal saline or tap water, and then apply antiseptics, such as alcohol, on the wound.”

 

“Antiseptic creams, also known as first-aid creams, are commonly sold over-the-counter.”

 

“During the bird flu outbreak, officials need to monitor and use antiseptic sprays in the affected area two or three times a day.”

 

Related word

 

Disinfectant

noun. Similar to antiseptic, a substance applied to non-living surfaces that kills or inhibits the growth of disease-causing microorganisms.

 

Learning point

What are the differences between antibiotic and antiseptic?

 

Unlike antibiotics, antiseptics are also effective on other microorganisms such as viruses and fungi, making them potentially beneficial in fighting other infections. Antibiotics can be taken by mouth or injected into the body to kill the bacteria causing infection; however, antiseptics can ONLY be used to kill bacteria on body surfaces such as the skin or open wounds.

 

 

 

Antiseptic

 

 

Antibiotic

 

 

Used externally on the skin; e.g. wounds, scrapes, or cuts

 

 

Taken orally or Injected into the blood

 

Some common types of antiseptic include:

 

Alcohol- effective against broad range of microbes, can be diluted for optimal killing of microbes

 

Povidone iodine solution- use for surgical scrubs, wounds or scrapes (ex. Betadine®)

 

Hydrogen peroxide- clean and deodorize wounds and ulcers, and can be used as first aid for scrapes

 

Boric acid- can be used in eyewash and can be applied as a cream for burns

 

 

Some common types of antibiotic include:

 

Penicillin group - such as amoxicillin used for common bacterial infections such as bacterial pneumonia or Strep sore throat

 

Cephalosporins- such as cephalexin (Keflex®), used for skin infections, and urinary tract infection

 

Fluroquinolones- such as norfloxacin which is used for acute diarrhea caused by bacterial infection 

 

Resistance to antiseptic is rare

 

 

Resistance to antibiotics is common

 

 

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