Compositions for killing or preventing the growth of microbes
Described herein are methods and compositions for killing or preventing the growth of microbes. It has been discovered that a class of porphyrins can kill or prevent the growth of microbes. The porphyrins can be used in a number of different applications where microbes grow.
1. A topical composition comprising a pharmaceutical carrier and a porphyrin of the formula I
wherein R 1 is a C 12 straight chain alkyl group;
R 2 -R 4 are each a methyl group; and
X − is an anion.
2. The composition of claim 1 , wherein X is a halide, sulfate, acetate, lactate, nitrate, phosphate, carbonate, bicarbonate, or tosylate.
3. The composition of claim 1 , wherein the pharmaceutical carrier is a powder.
4. The composition of claim 1 , wherein the pharmaceutical carrier is an ointment.
5. The composition of claim 1 , wherein the pharmaceutical carrier is a cream.
6. The composition of claim 1 , wherein the pharmaceutical carrier is a gel.
7. The composition of claim 1 , wherein the pharmaceutical carrier is a spray.
8. An article comprising a porphyrin of the formula I
wherein R 1 is a C 12 straight chain alkyl group;
R 2 -R 4 are each a methyl group; and
X − is an anion.
9. The article of claim 1 , wherein X is a halide, sulfate, acetate, lactate, nitrate, phosphate, carbonate, bicarbonate, or tosylate.
10. The article of claim 8 , wherein the article comprises a washcloth, a bandage, an antiseptic wipe, a handwipe, a sponge, a lancet, a medical tape, or a picc line.
11. The article of claim 8 , wherein when the article comprises a material that permits light to pass through the article.
12. The article of claim 8 , wherein the article further comprises a second disinfectant.
13. The article of claim 12 , wherein the second disinfectant comprises chlorhexidine, betadine, benzoin, isopropyl alcohol, ethyl alcohol, or any combination thereof.