Does benzalkonium chloride have side effects?

Nasal Zero Benzalkonium chloride may cause irritation or swelling inside the nose, especially if used for a long time. Long-term use may cause oedema of the nasal mucosa. Inhalation Zero Benzalkonium chloride may cause wheezing and breathing difficulties (bronchospasm), especially if you have asthma.

Is benzalkonium chloride toxic to humans?

Benzalkonium chloride (BAC) exerts toxic effects on microorganisms. This property has been utilized in the cosmetic industry and medicine, where it is used as effective germicide and preservative agents. Various BAC-containing preparations used by people may induce a number of adverse effects on the human body.

What is benzalkonium chloride used to treat?

BENZALKONIUM CHLORIDE (ben zal KOE nee um klor ide) is an antiseptic. It is used prior to surgical procedures or for minor wound care to reduce risks of infection. It may be used for cold sore care.

Is benzethonium chloride safe to use?

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) specifies that the safe and effective concentrations for benzethonium chloride are 0.1-0.2% in first aid products. Aqueous solutions of benzethonium chloride are not absorbed through the skin. It is not approved in the US and Europe for use as a food additive.

Why is benzalkonium chloride harmful?

Benzalkonium chloride is a human skin and severe eye irritant. It is a suspected respiratory toxicant, immunotoxicant, gastrointestinal toxicant, and neurotoxicant. Concentrated solutions are toxic to humans, causing corrosion/irritation to the skin and mucosa, and death if taken internally in sufficient volumes.

Why is benzalkonium chloride bad?

Why is benzalkonium chloride toxic?

Benzalkonium chloride is a frequently used preservative in eye drops; typical concentrations range from 0.004 to 0.01%. Higher concentrations can be caustic [7] and can cause irreversible damage to the corneal endothelium [8]. Occupational exposure to BAC has been linked to the development of asthma [9].

What is the antibacterial effect of benzalkonium chloride?

Alcohol-free formulations have been developed, with the surfactant benzalkonium chloride (BK) as the active antibacterial agent. This active ingredient acts by disrupting the cell membranes of the target organisms and is active at relatively low concentrations (0.12%-0.13%).

Is benzethonium chloride good for skin?

Benzethonium chloride topical (for the skin) is used to treat minor cuts, scrapes, wounds, or cracked skin. This medicine dries to form a waterproof protective seal over the skin. Benzethonium chloride topical may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Does benzalkonium chloride contain mercury?

Benzalkonium chloride and red dye solution, marketed by DLC Laboratories, Inc. of Paramount, California, as a mercury-free skin antiseptic under the name “Merthiolate” (brand name: De La Cruz)

What are the side effects of benzalkonium chloride?

Applies to benzalkonium chloride topical: external liquid, external solution Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Aug 4, 2020. What are some side effects that I need to call my doctor about right away?

What are the side effects of taking zephiran chloride?

Signs of an allergic reaction, like rash; hives; itching; red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever; wheezing; tightness in the chest or throat; trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking; unusual hoarseness; or swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat. Signs or symptoms of infection. Swelling.

What to do about side effects of tincture Merthiolate?

In Canada – Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345. Consult your pharmacist or physician. Consult your pharmacist or physician. Keep a list of all your medications with you, and share the list with your doctor and pharmacist.

What to do about side effects of lubricating jelly?

Consult your pharmacist or physician. Consult your pharmacist or physician. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch. In Canada – Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.