Which type of agents are used on living tissue to slow the growth of microorganisms?

Antiseptics are agents specifically designed for use on living tissues to reduce or inhibit the growth of microorganisms. They are formulated to be safe for application on skin and mucous membranes, making them suitable for pre-surgical preparation or wound care. The action of antiseptics is to interfere with the cellular metabolism or membrane integrity of pathogens, thus preventing infection without harming the host tissue.

This differentiates antiseptics from other agents like disinfectants, which are intended for non-living surfaces and may be too harsh for living tissues. Sterilants are used to achieve complete destruction of all microorganisms, including spores, and are typically applied to inanimate objects. Biocides is a broader term that encompasses several types of antimicrobial agents, including all of the previously mentioned categories, but it doesn't specifically refer to their safe use on living tissues as antiseptics do. Thus, antiseptics are the appropriate agents to fulfill the requirement of slowing microbial growth on living tissues.