Antiseptic
Last reviewed June 2026
Who is this for?
This is an antiseptic liquid that combines two germ-killing ingredients — benzalkonium chloride and chlorhexidine gluconate — which work together to destroy bacteria, fungi, and some viruses on the skin and surfaces.
Disrupts bacterial and fungal cell membranes by binding to negatively charged phospholipid bilayers, causing leakage of intracellular contents and cell death; additionally denatures microbial proteins through interaction with cellular enzymes and nucleic acids.
Available Over The Counter
Get this from any pharmacy or chemist — no prescription needed.
Explore this drug
This is not a drug you swallow — it is applied on the skin or used as a wash. Dilute the liquid as directed on the label (usually a capful in a bowl of clean water) and use it to clean wounds, wash hands, or disinfect skin. You can also apply it directly to small cuts using clean cotton wool. Mavlon Antiseptic Liquid is a popular brand in Nigeria.
Since this is used as needed for cleaning wounds or disinfecting skin, there is no fixed dosing schedule to miss. Simply use it whenever you need to clean a wound or disinfect.
Always buy from a reputable pharmacy — do not buy antiseptic liquids from roadside sellers or open markets as they may be fake or expired. Do not use it as a mouth wash unless the product specifically says it is safe for that. If a wound is not healing after a few days of cleaning with antiseptic, see a doctor — you may need antibiotics.
Do not mix with soap as soap can reduce its germ-killing power — rinse off soap first before applying. Avoid using it together with other antiseptic products like iodine (such as Betadine) on the same wound at the same time as they may interfere with each other.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Benzalkonium with your other drugs?
Generally safe to use on the skin during pregnancy and breastfeeding, but avoid applying it near the breast area if you are breastfeeding so the baby does not accidentally ingest it.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat — Nigerian weather can be very hot so avoid leaving it in cars or near windows. Keep the cap tightly closed after use. Keep far away from children as swallowing it can be very dangerous.
For information only — not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Names this drug is sold under — especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
Tap a brand for packaging, NAFDAC details and authenticity check
Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.
Dispensing Benzalkonium Chloride; Chlorhexidine Gluconate?
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