Is hydrogen peroxide the same as hydrogen dioxide?

Jul 02, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Yang Ziqi

Introduction

Under normal circumstances, hydrogen peroxide is the same substance as hydrogen dioxide, with both terms referring to the same compound. It should be noted that hydrogen peroxide is unstable and prone to decomposition upon exposure to light, heat, or heavy metal ions; therefore, it should be stored sealed in a cool place. Additionally, although hydrogen peroxide has a fast-acting and mild disinfectant effect, its disinfecting efficacy on intact skin is inferior to that of povidone-iodine or alcohol, and its decomposition products are water and oxygen.

Under normal circumstances, hydrogen peroxide is the same substance as hydrogen dioxide, differing only in terminology. A detailed analysis is as follows:

Hydrogen peroxide has the chemical formula H₂O₂. It is a colorless, transparent liquid with strong oxidizing properties and is commonly used in the medical field as a disinfectant and as an oxidizing agent in chemical reactions. When used as a disinfectant, medical-grade hydrogen peroxide solution typically has a concentration of 3%. Its bactericidal mechanism involves decomposition to produce highly oxidizing free radicals that destroy the bacterial cell wall, cell membrane, and nucleic acid structures, thereby killing various pathogenic microorganisms including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and spores.

Clinically, 3% hydrogen peroxide solution is commonly used for cleaning wounds, ulcers, and pus-filled sinuses, and can also be used in the treatment of suppurative external otitis media, middle ear inflammation, Vincent's angina, and gingival abscesses. Upon contact with tissue, hydrogen peroxide rapidly decomposes and releases oxygen bubbles, which helps remove necrotic tissue and foreign bodies from wounds. However, high-concentration hydrogen peroxide is corrosive and must be strictly avoided from contacting skin and mucous membranes.

It should be noted that hydrogen peroxide is unstable and prone to decomposition when exposed to light, heat, or heavy metal ions; therefore, it must be stored sealed in a cool place. Additionally, although hydrogen peroxide acts quickly and gently as a disinfectant, its disinfecting effect on intact skin is inferior to that of povidone-iodine or alcohol. Its decomposition products are water and oxygen, leaving no residual toxicity, making it suitable for use in situations where individuals are allergic to other disinfectants or need to avoid irritation.

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Which has better disinfecting effects, hydrogen peroxide or iodophor?

Hydrogen peroxide solution, also known as double oxygen water, should not be simply compared with povidone-iodine solution in terms of effectiveness. Povidone-iodine is more effective for disinfecting skin, mucous membranes, and superficial wounds, whereas hydrogen peroxide solution is more suitable for treating deep or heavily contaminated wounds. When using any disinfectant, it is important to follow the correct application methods and precautions.

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What are the medicinal solutions for cleaning wounds?

Under normal circumstances, antiseptics used for cleaning wounds include povidone-iodine, alcohol, hydrogen peroxide solution, normal saline, chlorhexidine solution, and others. When selecting a wound cleaning agent, appropriate choice should be made based on the type, degree of contamination, and location of the wound. Allergic reactions should be monitored during use; if symptoms such as redness, swelling, or itching occur, discontinue use immediately and seek medical attention.