What are the differences between the various antiseptic agents active ingredients?
There are so many topical antiseptics agents from which to choose. Table #3 details the comparison of several topical antiseptics with regards to the five key characteristics. Knowing all this, how do you choose? The balancing act can be challenging when choosing the best antiseptic agent for your facility. It is essential to factor in compliance with the requirements established by the FDA, the needs of the hospital (cost, ease of use, etc?) and, most importantly, the requirements of the end user. Does the product meet the FDA’s requirements? If the product is recognized as safe and effective under the FDA’s TFM, ask the manufacturer to provide data proving that the product in question meets that criteria – both in vivo and in vitro testing. These data should be readily available. If the product does not fall in the TFM ingredient listing, ask the manufacturer for documentation of the FDA drug application approval. This is the first step to understanding if the product is even in comp
