About Phisohex

The information below should not be taken as a substitute for qualified medical advice. Consult your health care provider before taking Phisohex.

Phisohex is a liquid skin cleansing detergent, used primary as a medical scrub prior to surgery. It may also be prescribed to patients to prevent the spread of skin infections. As a topical bacteriostatic agent, Phisohex inhibits the spread of gram-positive bacteria such as staphylococci through a 3% dispersion of hexachlorophene in a soapless cleanser.

Phisohex is applied directly to wet hands or other areas of skin, lathered, then rinsed thoroughly. For surgical scrubbing, repeat treatment again after first cleansing. Hexachorlophene has a cumulative effect, building a residue to continuously inhibit bacterial growth. Therefore, frequent use increases the effects. An amount equal to 5ml, or approximately 1 teaspoon, is typically recommended for each cleansing.

Hexachorlophene, the active ingredient in Phisohex, can be absorb through the skin. As such, using Phisohex more often or for longer periods than prescribed is not recommended. Patients with open sores, burns, or other skin lesions should not use Phisohex, as the risk of absorption increases. Small children are especially susceptible to absorption through broken skin, as well as ingestion from putting fingers to mouth. Phisohex is not recommended for use on infants.

Do not use other cleansers containing alcohol in conjunction with Phisohex, as this negates the antibacterial properties of Phisohex. Keep away from eyes and other mucus membranes, as ingestion of hexachlorophene is toxic. Any contact with eyes should be followed by rinsing the eyes with clean water. Sensitivity to sunlight is possible when using Phisohex, therefore prolonged exposure to sunlight should be avoided. Side effects include minor swelling, redness, dryness, or scaling of the skin. Side effects requiring immediate medical attention include rash, facial swelling, hives, seizures, or unusually irritable behavior.