What is PHMB in eye drops?
Poly (hexamethylene Biguanide) Hydrochloride(PHMB) is used as an antimicrobial agent in eye drops, particularly for the treatment of a rare and serious corneal infection, echinococcal amoebic keratitis (AK).PHMB has the ability to disrupt microbial cell membranes and is therefore a key agent in the treatment of AK.
Low concentrations (e.g., 0.02%) of PHMB are often compounded specifically for the treatment of AK and have been widely recommended since their introduction in the 1990s. However, efficacy varies depending on the severity of the infection and other factors. Its use emphasizes the importance of good hygiene practices for contact lens wearers in preventing such infections.
