Indications
Cetalkonium Chloride is an antiseptic used in mouth and gum gels, usually together with Choline Salicylate, for the relief of pain and discomfort from mouth ulcers, sore gums, denture sores and minor mouth injuries. It helps keep the sore area clean and lowers the chance of infection.
How It Works
Cetalkonium Chloride is a quaternary ammonium compound, a type of surface-acting antiseptic. It disrupts the outer membrane of bacteria and some fungi, so they leak and die. It also helps the gel spread and stick to the moist lining of the mouth.
Dosage and Administration
Use as directed on the label. For adults, a small amount of gel (about 1 cm) is usually gently rubbed onto the sore area with a clean finger, up to every 3 hours and not more than the number of times a day stated on the pack. Do not eat or drink for a short time after applying. Do not swallow large amounts, and do not use more often than directed. Do not use in children younger than the age stated on the label.
Interactions
No important interactions are expected with normal use in the mouth. Soaps, toothpaste and other anionic products can reduce the action of quaternary ammonium antiseptics, so apply the gel separately from brushing. If the gel also contains a salicylate, see the advice for Choline Salicylate about blood thinners such as Warfarin.
Contraindications
- Allergy to Cetalkonium Chloride, other quaternary ammonium compounds, or any ingredient of the gel.
- For combination gels containing a salicylate: allergy to Aspirin or other salicylates, and children under the age stated on the label.
Side Effects
Side effects are uncommon. Some people feel brief stinging or burning when the gel is applied. Rarely, irritation of the mouth lining or an allergic reaction can occur.
Get urgent medical help if you have swelling of the lips, tongue, face or throat, difficulty breathing or a widespread rash after using the gel.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Very little is absorbed from the mouth, and local use is not expected to be harmful. Because these gels are often combined with a salicylate, ask a doctor or pharmacist before use in pregnancy, especially in the last three months, or while breastfeeding.
Precautions and Warnings
- For use in the mouth only. Avoid contact with the eyes.
- See a dentist or doctor if a mouth ulcer does not heal within 2 weeks, keeps coming back, or is painless and growing.
- Do not use for longer than recommended on the label without advice.
Overdose
Swallowing a large amount of gel may cause nausea, vomiting or throat irritation. Seek medical advice; if the gel also contains a salicylate, large amounts can cause salicylate poisoning, especially in children.
Therapeutic Class
Antiseptic, quaternary ammonium compound for oral and topical use.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light, with the cap tightly closed and out of the reach of children.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.