Hydrogen Peroxide
Description:
Hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) is the simplest peroxide with a chemical formula H₂O₂. It is a colorless liquid at room temperature with a bitter taste. H₂O₂ is unstable in the presence of a base or catalyst and is stored with a stabilizer in a weakly acidic solution. Small amounts of gaseous hydrogen peroxide occur naturally in the air, and it is also produced in the human body during the reduction of oxygen. Hydrogen peroxide is commonly found in households in low concentrations (3-9%) for medicinal uses such as wound cleaning and as a bleaching agent.
Clinical Pharmacology:
Metabolism:
Hydrogen peroxide is metabolically produced in cells, mainly as a byproduct of aerobic metabolism in the mitochondria. It is generated through the reduction of oxygen and broken down by enzymes such as catalase and superoxide dismutase (SOD). In the bloodstream, H₂O₂ is rapidly decomposed into water and oxygen by catalase, primarily in the plasma and erythrocytes.
Mechanism of Action:
Hydrogen peroxide serves as a chemical messenger and regulatory signal in various biological processes. It diffuses through cell membranes and participates in cell signaling, affecting survival pathways and inhibiting proteins that regulate cell functions. At high concentrations, H₂O₂ generates free radicals that can lead to oxidative damage in proteins, lipids, and DNA. Its biocidal properties make it an effective treatment for infections by damaging the cell membranes and DNA of pathogens.
Indications and Usage:
Hydrogen peroxide has been used medicinally for its antimicrobial and oxidative properties. It is used for disinfection and sterilization purposes. Historically, hydrogen peroxide has been applied to treat a wide range of conditions such as infections, autoimmune diseases, pain management, and as a therapy for improving oxygenation in conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma.
Contraindications:
Hydrogen peroxide should not be administered to patients with known hypersensitivity to the compound, especially those with allergies to additives or stabilizers present in hydrogen peroxide products.
Warnings:
The FDA has issued warnings against the use of high-concentration hydrogen peroxide (e.g., 35% food grade hydrogen peroxide) for any medicinal purpose due to potential risks, including oxygen emboli. It is important that hydrogen peroxide is properly diluted and administered by healthcare professionals in a controlled setting.