Cetylpyridinium Chloride

Synonyms:  C16-alkylpyridinium chloride; Cepacol; Cepacol chloride; Cetamiun; cetylpridinii chloridum; cetyl pyridium chloride; Dobendan; hexadecylpyridinium chloride; 1-hexadecylpyridinium chloride; Medilave; Pristacin; Pyrisept

Description:  Cetylypyridinium chloride is a white powder with a characteristic odor. It is slightly soapy to the touch.

Chemical Name: Hexadecan-1-ol

Antimicrobial preservative; antiseptic; cationic surfactant; disinfectant; solubilizing agent; wetting agent.

• Cetylpyridinium chloride is a quaternary ammonium cationic surfactant, used in pharmaceutical and cosmetic formulations as an antimicrobial preservative.

• It is used therapeutically as an antiseptic agent; used alone or in combination with other drugs for oral and throat care; used in nonparenteral formulations licensed in the UK; and used in oral and inhalation preparations at concentrations of 0.02–1.5 mg.

• Mouthwashes containing cetylpyridinium chloride have been shown to inhibit plaque formation, although efficacy is variable owing to limited published data

Incompatible with strong oxidizing agents and bases. It is also incompatible with methylcellulose. Magnesium stearate suspensions in cetylpyridinium chloride have been shown to significantly reduce its antimicrobial activity

Cetylpyridinium chloride is used widely in mouthwashes as a bactericidal antiseptic. It is generally regarded as a relatively nontoxic material when used at a concentration of 0.05% w/v, although minor side effects such as mild burning sensations on the tongue have been reported

Observe normal precautions appropriate to the circumstances and quantity of the material handled. When significant quantities are being handled, the use of a respirator with an appropriate gas filter is advised. When heated to decomposition, cetylpyridinium chloride emits very toxic fumes of NOx and Cl- . Eye protection, gloves and adequate ventilation are recommended.

Cetylpyridinium bromide.