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Med. Pr. 2007;58(2):139-142

TOXIC EFFECT OF BENZALKONIUM CHLORIDE ON ANIMALS AND HUMANS

TOKSYCZNE DZIAŁANIE CHLORKU BENZALKONIOWEGO NA ZWIERZĘTA I LUDZI

Radosław Świercz, Tadeusz Hałatek, Wanda Majcherek, Zofia Grzelińska, Wojciech Wąsowicz

Abstract

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. Bearing in mind that BAC is widely used in different branches of the national economy, its toxic effect may cause a health problem of significant importance to humans. The authors describe BAC toxic effects exerted on humans and laboratory animals as well as relevant hazards resulting from the use of BAC-contained preparations. Med Pr 2007;58(2):139ś142

Key words

benzalkonium chloride, BAC, exposure, animals, people