Cidex High-Level Disinfectant Solutions

For infection control teams and central sterile departments, Cidex is a name that needs little introduction. This collection features Cidex high-level disinfectant solutions used to reprocess heat-sensitive semi-critical medical devices—flexible endoscopes, ultrasound probes, and similar instruments that can't withstand steam sterilization. If you're responsible for reprocessing protocols, these are the workhorse chemistries you rely on to bridge the gap between cleaning and patient-ready equipment.

The Cidex OPA Solution (item 20390) is a ready-to-use formulation built around 0.55% ortho-phthalaldehyde. Because it ships ready to use in a 1-gallon jug, there's no mixing or activation step—open the jug, fill your soak tray, and log the in-use date. A common question is how long a batch lasts: OPA offers up to 14 days of reuse once opened, provided you verify potency before each cycle. That verification is non-negotiable. Use the Cidex OPA Concentration Indicator strips (item 20392) to confirm the minimum effective concentration is still present; a solution that fails the strip must be discarded regardless of how many days remain, since organic load and dilution degrade efficacy over time.

Compared with older glutaraldehyde chemistries, OPA appeals to many facilities because it works at room temperature, requires no activation, and has a fast contact time for high-level disinfection—reducing turnaround between procedures. As with any aldehyde-based agent, staff should wear appropriate PPE, work under adequate ventilation, and rinse devices thoroughly per the manufacturer's instructions and your facility's policy before patient use.

Order the solution and its matching indicator strips together so your reprocessing station is never caught short mid-shift. For related reprocessing and infection prevention supplies, explore our broader Infection Control category.