How do you take Hydrogen peroxide?

For wound cleaning: Apply the 3% solution directly to the wound using clean cotton wool or gauze. You will notice it foaming, which is normal. For mouth rinse or gargle: Dilute one part 3% hydrogen peroxide with one part clean water, swish in your mouth for about 30 seconds, then spit it out. Do not swallow. Use 2-3 times daily or as directed by your pharmacist.

What are the side effects of Hydrogen peroxide?

Mild stinging or burning sensation when applied to wounds, temporary whitening of the skin around the area, mild irritation of the mouth or gums when used as a rinse, foaming and bubbling on the wound

Who should not take Hydrogen peroxide?

People with known allergy or sensitivity to hydrogen peroxide, do not use on deep wounds, serious burns, or animal bites without seeing a doctor first, do not use concentrations higher than 3% on the skin unless directed by a healthcare professional.

OTC

Antiseptic

Hydrogen peroxide

Q: What is Hydrogen peroxide used for?

Cleaning minor wounds and cuts, mouth sores, gum infections, ear wax removal, gargling for sore throat

Last reviewed July 2026

Who is this for?

For adults (18+). Standard adult dosing applies: see the How to Take tab for full instructions.

What is this drug?

Hydrogen peroxide is an antiseptic solution that works by releasing oxygen when it touches damaged skin or wounds, which helps kill germs and clean out dirt and dead tissue.

How it works

Generates reactive oxygen species (ROS) through catalase-mediated decomposition, which oxidatively damages bacterial cell membranes, proteins, and DNA while mechanically removing debris through effervescence. The antimicrobial action is enhanced by direct contact with catalase-producing organisms, making it particularly effective for anaerobic infections and biofilm disruption.

What is it used for?

Cleaning minor wounds and cutsmouth soresgum infectionsear wax removalgargling for sore throat

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Topical Antibiotics & Antiseptics Wound Care & Antiseptics

Available Over The Counter

Get this from any pharmacy or chemist: no prescription needed.

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What to watch out for

Always check the concentration on the label: solutions above 3% can seriously burn your skin, so buy only from reputable pharmacies and known brands like Nabicon, Folat, or Robins Hydrogen Peroxide. Never swallow hydrogen peroxide. Some people wrongly believe drinking it can cure infections, but this is dangerous and false. Do not use it as your only treatment for serious or infected wounds. See a doctor if a wound is not healing.

Common Side Effects

Mild stinging or burning sensation when applied to wounds
temporary whitening of the skin around the area
mild irritation of the mouth or gums when used as a rinse
foaming and bubbling on the wound

Serious Side Effects

Severe skin burning or blistering
which may mean the concentration is too strong
go to the hospital immediately. Swallowing hydrogen peroxide can cause stomach pain
vomiting
and breathing difficulty
so seek emergency medical help right away. Allergic reaction with swelling of the face or throat (rare but serious).

Drug Interactions

Do not mix hydrogen peroxide with iodine-based antiseptics like povidone-iodine (Betadine) as they can cancel each other out. Avoid using it together with potassium permanganate (the purple disinfectant some people use). It may reduce the effectiveness of some wound creams if applied at the same time.

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Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Warning

Hydrogen peroxide is generally safe for external use during pregnancy and breastfeeding, but do not swallow it and consult your doctor before using it as a mouth rinse.

Who Should NOT Take This

People with known allergy or sensitivity to hydrogen peroxide
do not use on deep wounds
serious burns
or animal bites without seeing a doctor first
do not use concentrations higher than 3% on the skin unless directed by a healthcare professional.

How to Store

Store in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and heat, as Nigerian weather can make it break down faster if left in the sun. Keep the bottle tightly closed and store away from children. Do not transfer to unmarked containers.

For information only: not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.