Translation guide
Mercurochrome is a brand name for a topical antiseptic. In Japanese, it is commonly referred to by the generic term マーキュロクロム, but the product is widely known as 赤チン due to its red color.
Mercurochrome (brand/generic)
Referring to the antiseptic solution itself, often in a medical or first-aid context.
The direct katakana rendering of 'Mercurochrome'. Used in medical and product contexts.
Please apply Mercurochrome.
The common colloquial name for Mercurochrome in Japan, literally 'red tincture'. Widely understood by the general public.
When I was a child, I had Mercurochrome put on my scrapes.
More explicit term meaning 'Mercurochrome solution'. Used when distinguishing from other forms.
Mercurochrome solution is not used much nowadays.
Referring specifically to the branded product, often in historical or commercial contexts.
Used as the brand name. Note that in Japan, the product is often associated with the brand 赤チン, but マーキュロクロム is the direct brand name.
Mercurochrome is an American product.
In everyday conversation, 赤チン is far more common and natural. マーキュロクロム is understood but sounds more technical or like the actual brand name. If you're talking about the red liquid your grandmother used, say 赤チン.
In the old days, Mercurochrome was a household medicine.