Benzalkonium
Benzalkonium is a quaternary ammonium compound that functions as a topical antiseptic and disinfectant. It is commonly used for skin disinfection, wound cleansing, and preoperative skin preparation. This medication is primarily intended for external use on intact skin and minor superficial wounds.
A topical antiseptic and disinfectant agent commonly used for skin disinfection and wound care.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- D08AJ01
- RxNorm
- 1362
- Generic
- Benzalkonium
- Class
- atc-d08
- Brands
- Horseman's Dream Fung-A-Way, ReadyBath, DigiSan E Foam, Keystone, Zephiran, Safeguard Antibacterial Foaming, Pheneen, Releev Cold Sore, Mane 'N Tail Pro-Tect, Band-Aid Hurt-Free, Keepan, Shing-Releev, RevitaDERM Wound Care, Softsoap Antibacterial, Allercaine
- Availability
- otc
- Pregnancy
- C
- Lactation
- caution
- Half-life (h)
- 0
- Onset (min)
- 5
- Duration (h)
- 8
- Routes
- topical, oral, otic, vaginal
- Forms
- solution, cream, ointment, gel, spray, foam, wipes, drops, soap
- Regions
- United States, Canada, European Union, United Kingdom, Australia, Japan
- Monitoring
- skin irritation, allergic contact dermatitis
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Dosage and administration
- Usual dose
- 0.13% solution applied to affected area
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- as needed
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 0.13% solution applied to affected area
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- as needed
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 0.13% solution applied to affected area
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- as needed
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
Overdose information
Special Populations
11 groupspregnancy
first trimesterno adjustment needed for topical use
avoid use on large body surface areas or broken skin during pregnancy; topical application limited to small areas is generally considered low risk
no specific monitoring required for topical use
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pregnancy
third trimesterno adjustment needed for topical use
avoid prolonged use or use on extensive skin areas; limited topical use is generally considered safe
no specific monitoring required
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
lactation
breastfeedingavoid application to breast or nipple area
avoid applying to breast or nipple area when breastfeeding; other topical areas are generally safe
no specific monitoring required
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pediatric_age
neonatesuse with extreme caution
avoid use in neonates unless specifically prescribed by physician; not recommended for routine antiseptic use in newborns
monitor for skin irritation
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pediatric_age
infantsuse diluted formulations only
use with caution in infants; avoid use on large areas or broken skin; prefer milder concentrations
monitor for skin irritation or sensitization
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pediatric_age
childrenno adjustment needed
safe for topical use in children for short-term antiseptic applications; avoid prolonged use
monitor for skin sensitivity
geriatric
elderlyno adjustment needed
safe for topical use in elderly patients; may have increased skin sensitivity with age
monitor for skin irritation or sensitivity reactions
renal_impairment
mild to moderateno adjustment needed for topical use
no dose adjustment required for topical application; systemic absorption is minimal
no specific monitoring required
renal_impairment
severeavoid use on large surface areas or broken skin
use caution if applying to large areas of broken skin due to potential increased systemic absorption
no specific monitoring required for typical topical use
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
hepatic_impairment
mild to moderateno adjustment needed for topical use
no dose adjustment required for topical application
no specific monitoring required
hepatic_impairment
severeavoid use on large surface areas or broken skin
use caution if applying to large areas of broken skin; otherwise standard topical use is acceptable
no specific monitoring required
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
Statistics and clinical data
Drug class
Chemical classification of benzalkonium chloride as a cationic surfactant
Common uses
Primary therapeutic applications in healthcare and consumer products
Commonly used since
Historical usage timeline in pharmaceutical applications
Safety profile
Safety assessment for antiseptic applications
Used for skin disinfection, wound cleansing, preoperative skin preparation, and antiseptic cleaning of minor cuts and abrasions. Also found in some ophthalmic preparations as a preservative.
Benzalkonium chloride is a cationic surfactant that disrupts the cell membrane integrity of microorganisms, leading to cell lysis and death. It is effective against a broad range of bacteria, fungi, and some enveloped viruses.
For external use only; avoid contact with eyes and deep wounds. May be inactivated by soap and organic matter. Can cause skin irritation or sensitization in some individuals. Not effective against bacterial spores.
Contraindications
Conditions and patient states where this medication should be avoided or used with caution.
Do not use (1)
Known allergy to this medication or its components
Use caution (1)
Consult healthcare provider for benefits vs risks assessment
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 27, 2026. · Read our editorial policy