Cetalkonium is an antiseptic used as a preservative or to treat certain topical infections. Cetalkonium is a C16 alkyl benzalkonium chloride derivative with an amphipathic property which allows it to be used in different types of formulations.
- Mechanism
- Curator reviewed · 2 references
The activity of cetalkonium is based on the creation of a positive charge which permits a bio-adhesive property to negative surfaces. This property allows cetalkonium to disrupt the cell membrane, inactivate enzymes and denature proteins. This type of mechanism allows this type of agents to present a broad spectrum.
- Primary indication
- Cetalkonium is used as a surfactant, germicide, fungicide, mildew preventive agents in silicone-based water repellents, emulsifier, disinfectant, topical anti-infective, and antiseptic antimicrobial for pharmaceuticals.Curator reviewed · 1 structured indication
- Formula / weight
- C25H46N · 360.649 g/mol (avg)
- First approval
- Canada, 2004
- Also known as
- Benzylhexadecyldimethylammonium · Cetalkonium ion
Resolves to
QDYLMAYUEZBUFO-UHFFFAOYSA-NSMILESCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCC[N+](C)(C)CC1=CC=CC=C1What you can answer from here — as of August 30, 2026
Which other approved drugs treat the same conditions as Cetalkonium, and which companies have late-stage candidates in those indications?
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