Bleach, Dilute Solution (sodium Hypochlorite)

General Drug Information and Indications

Sodium hypochlorite solution used as environmental disinfectant for premises, equipment, and biosecurity; broad-spectrum antimicrobial for viral, bacterial, and fungal pathogens. Sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) antiseptic/disinfectant. Mechanism: hypochlorous acid (HOCl) generated at physiological pH → oxidizes microbial proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids → broad-spectrum biocidal activity against bacteria, viruses, fungi, spores, and prions. Concentration-dependent: 0.05–0.5% for wound antisepsis; 1–5% for environmental disinfection. Key information NOT a medication — disinfectant only. Dilute to 1:32 for general disinfection, 1:10 for parvovirus. Corrosive — avoid skin/eye contact. Inactivated by organic material (clean surfaces before disinfecting). Do not mix with ammonia or acids.

How to Give this Medication

Pre-diluted sodium hypochlorite wound cleanser: apply directly to wound surface via syringe or soaked gauze. Brief contact time then rinse with sterile saline. External wound/surface use only. Do not inject or use in closed body cavities. If a dose is missed This medication is administered by a veterinarian or veterinary staff in a clinical setting. Missed doses are managed by your veterinary team — contact your veterinarian to reschedule.

Side Effects

Topical antiseptic/disinfectant: skin/mucous membrane irritation and chemical burns at high concentrations. Eye contact: severe corneal/conjunctival injury. Inhalation: respiratory irritation. Cytotoxic to granulation tissue — dilute before wound use.

Precautions

For animals External disinfectant only — do not inject or use in body cavities undiluted. Cytotoxic to granulation tissue at high concentrations; dilute appropriately for wound use. Avoid eyes and mucous membranes. For people handling this medication Wear gloves when handling. Dilute before use. Avoid skin, eye, and respiratory contact. Corrosive at full strength — causes skin burns and serious eye damage. Never mix with ammonia or acids (produces toxic gases). Wear gloves and work in ventilated area. If eye contact occurs, flush immediately with water for 15+ minutes and seek medical attention.

Overdose

Contact your veterinarian immediately. If ingested, bleach causes severe GI corrosive injury, vomiting, and respiratory signs. Flush mouth with water. Contact your veterinarian, a veterinary emergency clinic, or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (888-426-4435) immediately. Do not induce vomiting unless specifically directed by a veterinary professional.

Bleach, Dilute Solution (sodium Hypochlorite) dosage forms

ProductStrengthFormSizeType
BLEACH, DILUTE SOLUTION (SODIUM HYPOCHLORITE) 0.07% LIQUID - 3785 ML—Liquid3785 MLCompound
BLEACH, DILUTE SOLUTION (SODIUM HYPOCHLORITE) 2% LIQUID - 960 ML—Solution960 MLCompound
BLEACH (SODIUM HYPOCHLORITE) 7.5 % LIQUID—Liquid—Commercial

Sources

This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for advice from your veterinarian. Source: Merck Veterinary Manual (merckvetmanual.com); USDA/EPA disinfectant guidelines