Disinfection: Types and Mechanisms of Action

Disinfection is the process of killing or inhibiting the growth of bacteria, fungi, viruses, and other disease-causing organisms. Here are some common disinfectants and their mechanisms of action:

1. Boric Acid:

– Applications: Eye wash, treatment of fungal infections such as Candida infections.

2. Iodine:

– Common forms: Betadine, Povidone iodine.

– Mechanism of action: Precipitates proteins and oxidizes enzymes, having bactericidal, fungicidal, and virucidal effects.

3. Chlorine:

– Common forms: Chloramine, Halazon.

– Applications: Disinfectant.

4. Alcohol:

– Mechanism of action: Denatures proteins.

– Effects: Bactericidal, fungicidal, virucidal, ineffective against spores.

5. Oxidizing agents:

– Common forms: H2O2 (Hydrogen peroxide), KMnO4 (Potassium permanganate).

– Mechanism of action: Bactericidal and sporicidal.

Note: The use of disinfectants should be followed by the instructions of a doctor or manufacturer to ensure safety and effectiveness.