Last reviewed 2026-04-20 · How we verify

SODIUM HYPOCHLORITE

Sodium hypochlorite is a marketed antiseptic used to prevent and treat skin infections, with a key composition patent expiring in 2028. Its mechanism of releasing hypochlorous acid to kill bacteria provides a strong efficacy profile against a broad spectrum of microorganisms. The primary risk is competition from other same-class antiseptics, including hydrogen peroxide, tosylchloramide sodium, isopropanol, and ethanol, some of which have longer patent protection or earlier FDA approval.

At a glance

Approved indications

• Prevent and treat skin infections
• Prevent and treat tissue infections
• Pre and post surgery infections
• Treat cuts, abrasions, and skin ulcers

Common side effects

No common side effects on file.

Key clinical trials

• Comparison of Two Minimally Invasive Approaches for Masking Molar-Incisor Hypomineralization Opacities (NA)
• Epigallocatechin Gallate (EGCG) as a Flushing Agent During Full Pulpotomy in Mature Permanent Molars With Irreversible Pulpitis (NA)
• EUSOL vs. PDGF Dressing for Diabetic Foot Ulcers (NA)
• Comparison of Post-Operative Endodontic Pain Using Sodium Hypochlorite, Hydrogen Peroxide, and Normal Saline as Root Canal Irrigants (NA)
• Lesion Sterilization and Tissue Repair Antibiotic Paste Versus Zinc Oxide and Eugenol Pulpectomy for Treatment of Primary Molars With Pulp Necrosis (PHASE1,PHASE2)
• Evaluating Postoperative Pain and Antibacterial Effect of Ultrasonic and 980 nm Diode Laser Combination (NA)
• Non-Surgical Treatment of Periodontitis With Adjunctive Sodium Hypochlorite/Amino Acids and Cross-Linked Hyaluronic Acid (NA)
• Effects of Treatments on Atopic Dermatitis (PHASE2)

Primary sources

Every claim on this page is sourced from regulatory or scientific primary sources. See our editorial policy for full methodology.