Indications
Triclosan is an antibacterial and antifungal agent used in some antiseptic soaps, hand washes, skin cleansers, deodorants, toothpastes and other personal care products. It is used to reduce the number of germs on the skin and, in some products, to help control skin infections or body odour.
How It Works
At the low levels used in products, triclosan blocks an enzyme (enoyl-ACP reductase) that bacteria need to make fatty acids for their cell membranes, so they cannot grow. At higher concentrations it also damages the bacterial membrane directly.
Dosage and Administration
Use as directed on the product label. Soaps and hand washes are usually lathered on wet skin, rubbed for at least 20 seconds and rinsed off. Toothpastes are used twice a day and spat out, not swallowed. Do not apply to broken skin or large wounds unless the label says so.
Interactions
No important interactions with medicines are known for normal use of triclosan-containing products. Avoid using several antiseptic products on the same area at once, which can increase dryness and irritation.
Contraindications
- Allergy or sensitivity to triclosan or any ingredient.
Side Effects
Triclosan products are usually well tolerated. Some people develop dryness, redness, itching or an allergic skin reaction (contact dermatitis). Eye contact can cause irritation.
Get urgent medical help if you develop swelling of the face, lips or throat, a widespread rash or difficulty breathing after use, or if a large amount is swallowed by a child. Stop using the product and see a doctor if a rash or blisters develop.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Small amounts can be absorbed through the skin and mouth. Ordinary use of soaps or toothpaste is not known to cause harm, but because animal studies have raised questions about hormone effects, pregnant and breastfeeding women may prefer plain soap and water or other products where possible.
Precautions and Warnings
- For external use only; avoid contact with the eyes.
- For everyday hand washing, plain soap and water works as well as antibacterial soap; regulators in several countries have restricted triclosan in consumer washes because benefit over plain soap was not shown.
- Overuse of antibacterial products may contribute to resistant bacteria.
- Children should be supervised when using toothpaste so they do not swallow it.
Overdose
Swallowing a small amount of soap or toothpaste usually causes only mild stomach upset. If a large amount is swallowed, rinse the mouth, drink some water and contact a doctor or poison centre.
Therapeutic Class
Topical antiseptic, antibacterial and antifungal agent.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light 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.