Formula	CAS
C6H5CH2N(CH3)2RCl	8001-54-5

Background
Benzalkonium chloride is a quaternary ammonium salt composed of a mixture of alkyldimethylbenzylammonium chlorides of the general formula in which R represents a mixture of the alkyls from C8H17 to C18H37. It functions as a cationic surface active agent, germicide, preservative, and antiseptic. The mode of action of quaternary ammonium compounds appears to be associated with the agent's effect on the cytoplasmic membrane, which controls cell permeability. Extensive data are reported for effective concentrations and affected bacterial species. Benzalkonium chloride is not effective against gram-negative bacteria or picornaviruses, and is not recommended for treatment of sanitizing critical or semicritical medical instruments. It has been reported that BC inactivates HIV and HSV in vitro. Usage concentrations range from 0.01% to 0.1% for cleansing of wounds and skin surfaces. Benzalkonium chloride is reportedly incompatible with soaps and other anionic surfactants, citrates, iodides, nitrates, permanganates, salicylates, silver salts and tartrates. Incompatibilities have been demonstrated with ingredients of some commercial rubber mixes or plastics. Incompatibilities have also been reported with other substances including aluminum, cotton, fluorescein sodium, hydrogen peroxide, kaolin, hydrous wool fat, and some sulphonamides. The preservative effect of BC can be neutralized by the addition of Tween 80 and lecithin.

Synonyms
Alkyl Dimethylbenzyl Ammonium Chloride
Alkyldimethyl(phenylmethyl) Quaternary Ammonium Chloride
Benzalkonium chloride A

Uses
Agriculture, fabric, dye, and metallurgy industries
Cold sterilization solution for medical and dental instruments
Contact lens solutions
Cosmetics, shampoos, and deodorants
Eye solutions and medications
Injectable medications
Mouthwash, lozenges, and medications for the mouth and throat
Skin cleansers
Skin creams and medications
Udder wash

Cross-Reactions
Cetrimoniumbromide
Benzethoniumchloride

Unusual Reactions
Airborne contact dermatitis

Back to list of contact allergens



Author(s):
Allergology: background information on allergens.