COVID-19, Antiviral Antiseptics & Bleach

Sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl or NaCLO) is commonly called bleach. Clorox brand contains 6% bleach. NaOCl has a long history of use in dentistry & dermatology. It is used in endodontics (root canal) & periodontics (gum treatment). In dermatology it is commonly called Dakin’s solution.¹

The American Dental Association Council on Dental Therapeutics considers 0.1% NaOCl a “mild antiseptic mouth rinse.”² It destroys microorganisms by oxidation of (i.e. dissolves) proteins, nucleotides & lipids. 0.1% NaOCl can inactivate human coronaviruses similar to COVID-19, including SARS, MERS & HCoV within 1 minute on inanimate surfaces.²

NaOCl has been used safely for over 100 years. It is found in human drinking water & as a food additive in very diluted, precise concentrations. The concentration & volume of NaOCl determines its toxicity to bacteria, viruses & people. Never eat, drink, inject nor apply NaOCl. Improper use can cause severe injury, burns or death.¹

NaOCl is another antiviral antiseptic that may help against COVID-19. Only two clinical trials have been published. Spend 1% of vaccine budgets on clinical trials of several antiviral antiseptics.

The CDC offers no guidance; no claim is made. Consult your doctor.

1. Back to the basics: Diluted bleach for COVID-19 To the Editor. J AM ACAD DERMATOL VOLUME 83, NUMBER 1 p279. July 2020.

2. Periodontal effects of 0.25% sodium hypochlorite twice-weekly oral rinse. A pilot study. J Periodont Res 2014; 49: 696–702.

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This post was written by Dr. Jeffrey Dorfman