Medicines
Discover all available medicines and treatments
Discover all available medicines and treatments
Generic: Triclosan
Triclosan is an antibacterial and antifungal agent widely used in personal care products like soaps, toothpaste, and deodorants. It belongs to the class of polychlorophenoxy phenols and acts by inhibiting a bacterial enzyme essential for fatty acid synthesis. Its widespread use has raised concerns about potential health and environmental effects.
Used as an antibacterial and antifungal agent in personal care products, and occasionally as a hospital disinfectant.
Outcome:
Increased skin sensitivity/irritation
Mechanism:
Phototoxic reactions
Outcome:
Potential decreased effectiveness of antibiotic
Mechanism:
May interfere with bacterial cell wall synthesis
Outcome:
Additive or synergistic effects
Mechanism:
Similar mechanisms of action
Research into safer and more effective alternatives to triclosan for antiseptic applications is expected to increase (High confidence).
Due to its withdrawal from over-the-counter antiseptic washes, future use of triclosan in consumer products is unlikely.
Antibacterial, Antifungal
Polychlorophenoxy Phenol