Advantage And Disadvantage Of Phenolics

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Phenols are probably the oldest disinfectants used, first ever used by Lister, in 1867. He used it to control surgical infections in the operating room. Phenol is often used in throat lozenges but it has little antimicrobial effect at low concentration. However, it has a remarkable antimicrobial effect at concentration above 1%. It is now rarely used because of its comparatively more side effects, such as it irritates the skin and has disagreeable odor. “Derivative of phenols are called phenolics.” In these substances, the molecule of phenol is chemically altered, in order to make it more efficient and reduce its irritating qualities. Examples are cresol, hexachlorophene and so on. MODE OF ACTION:  Phenols actively precipitate proteins and denatures proteins hence, damaging the microbe.  By lowering the surface tension, they disrupt membranes effecting, the stability of microorganism.  It results in the leakage of cellular components, by injuring the lipid-containing membranes.  EFFECTIVENESS: It kills vegetative cells and some fungi. It is moderately, effective against spores. It is rarely used, expect as a standard of comparison. Their effect is immediate. ADVANTAGES:  The advantages of using phenols and related compounds is that, they are stable to heating and drying.  Moreover, they are unaffected by organic compounds. DISADVANTAGES:  When used in its pure form, phenol is harmful to tissues  It also has a disagreeable odour. EXAMPLE: 1.

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