Question

Mercurochrome is a type of
(a)Disinfectant
(b)Antibiotic
(c)Antiseptic
(d)All

Answer 1

Hint: Mercurochrome is the trade name for Merbromin. The property pertaining to its use as an agent to prevent the growth of disease-causing organisms was discovered by Hugh Young in 1918. It was also referred to as Monkey blood due to its colour.

Complete answer:
Merbromin is an organomercuric disodium salt that is used as a topical antiseptic for minor scrapes and cuts to prevent infections. Merbromin is sold under the trade name of mercurochrome.
It is used as a topical antiseptic in cases of minor wounds, burns, and scratches. It is also used for the antisepsis of the umbilical cord.
Mercurochrome consists of 2 percent concentration merbromin dissolved in water or ethyl alcohol.

Additional Information: -Antiseptics are substances that can be applied to the living tissues or skin to reduce the possibility of any form of sepsis, infections, or putrefactive developments by acting against the pathogenic organisms.
-They are different from antibiotics which have the ability to destroy the bacteria within the body.
-They also differ from the disinfectants which destroy the microorganisms found on the non-living objects while the antiseptics reduce the possibility of infection when applied to living surfaces.
-These antiseptics can be antibacterials, Virucides or antivirals, and Antifungals, or antimycotics.
-One of the first antiseptic solutions used was carbolic acid or phenol by Joseph Lister who was known as the father of modern surgery.
So, the correct answer is, “Antiseptic”

Note: -Merbromin is readily available in many countries but is no longer sold in certain countries due to its established mercury content and mercury toxicity.
-The countries where merbromin is not available, include Switzerland, Brazil, Iran, France, The United States of America, and Germany.
-It is also used as a biological dye to mark tissue margins.