Benzalkonium Chloride

INFORMATION ABOUT BENZALKONIUM CHLORIDE

Benzalkonium Chloride Uses

Benzalkonium Chloride is used for preservative.

How Benzalkonium Chloride works

Benzalkonium Chloride works as a preservative and helps prolong shelf life of medicines.

Common side effects of Benzalkonium Chloride

Most side effects do not require any medical attention and disappear as your body adjusts to the medicine. Consult your doctor if they persist or if you’re worried about them

Common

Allergic contact dermatitis, Apprehension, Breathlessness, Collapse, Convulsion, Cyanosis (bluish discoloration of the skin), Muscle weakness, Paralysis of respiratory muscle, Restlessness, Vomiting

CONTENT DETAILS

Last updated

10 Apr 2025 | 04:35 AM (UTC)

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Medicine brands for Benzalkonium Chloride

Expert advice for Benzalkonium Chloride

• Avoid contact with eyes, mouth or nose and rinse immediately with plenty of cool tap water in case of accidental contact.

• Never use benzalkonium chloride solution on blistered/ cut skin.

• Consult your doctor before using benzalkonium chloride solution in children younger than 2 years.

• Inform your doctor if symptoms do not disappear after 7 days of use.

• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant or are breastfeeding.

• Should not be given to patients who are allergic to benzalkonium chloride or any of its ingredients.

• Should not be given to patients who have a deep puncture wound, animal bite or serious burns.

Frequently asked questions for Benzalkonium Chloride

Q. Is benzalkonium chloride the same as rubbing alcohol?

No. Benzalkonium chloride is not as same as rubbing alcohol

Q. Is Benzalkonium Chloride antifungal?

Yes, Benzalkonium Chloride is known to be antifungal to some extent

Q. Does Benzalkonium Chloride kill viruses?

No. Benzalkonium does not kill viruses

Q. Is Benzalkonium Chloride bleach?

No. Benzalkonium Chloride is not bleach

Q. Does Benzalkonium Chloride kill MRSA (Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus)/ staph (Staphylococcus Aureus)?

Yes, higher concentrations of Benzalkonium Chloride can kill MRSA / staph present on the skin

Q. Does Benzalkonium Chloride work for cold sores?

Yes. Benzalkonium Chloride is effective for treatment of cold sores.