Triclosan is an antimicrobial agent in clinical setting for disinfection, and prevention of spread and growth of bacteria, fungus, and mildew. An aromatic ether that is phenol which is substituted at C-5 by a chloro group and at C-2 by a 2,4-dichlorophenoxy group.
- Mechanism
- Curator reviewed
Triclosan is a biocidal compound with multiple targets in the cytoplasm and membrane. At lower concentrations, however, triclosan appears bacteriostatic and is seen to target bacteria mainly by inhibiting fatty acid synthesis. Triclosan binds to enoyl-acyl carrier protein reductase enzyme (ENR). This complex has increased affinity for NAD+ and forms a ternary complex. This complex is unable to participate in fatty acid synthesis, weakening the cell membrane and causing cell death. Humans do not have an ENR enzyme, and thus are not affected.
- Primary indication
- Triclosan is used in a variety of common household products, including soaps, mouthwashes, dish detergents, toothpastes, deodorants, and hand sanitizers.Curator reviewed · 11 structured indications
- Formula / weight
- C12H7Cl3O2 · 289.542 g/mol (avg)
- First approval
- Canada, 1996 · United States, 2007
- Code names
- CH-3565
- Brand names
Resolves to
XEFQLINVKFYRCS-UHFFFAOYSA-NSMILESOC1=CC(Cl)=CC=C1OC1=C(Cl)C=C(Cl)C=C1What you can answer from here — as of June 15, 2026
Which drugs share a target with Triclosan, and which of those have an active Phase 3 trial?
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