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Non-selective antimicrobials

These compounds are loosely termed sterilants, disinfectants, and antiseptics. Which definition applied depends on their efficacy in clearing microbial loads and their intended use. This is summarized in the table below.

Table with four rows and three columns called: “Type of antimicrobial”, “Efficacy”, and “intended use”. First antimicrobial, sterilant, inactivates all living organisms, is used to eliminate all potential pathogenic species and is applied only on inanimate objects. Second antimicrobial, disinfectant, inactivates most organisms, is used to reduce infection risk, and is applied only on inanimate objects. Last antimicrobial, antiseptic, reduces microbial load with varied efficacy, is used to reduce microbial load on skin surface and around wounds, and is apple on living organisms.

Referred from:

Article
Antimicrobial Agents