Benzalkonium / Cetrimide
Benzalkonium/Cetrimide is a topical antiseptic combination used to cleanse and disinfect minor wounds, cuts, and skin infections. It contains two quaternary ammonium compounds that work together to kill bacteria and fungi on the skin surface.
A topical antiseptic medication used to prevent infections in minor skin wounds and for skin cleansing.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 622157
- Generic
- Benzalkonium / Cetrimide
- Class
- multi-ingredient
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
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.
Treatment and prevention of bacterial and fungal skin infections; cleansing of minor wounds, cuts, abrasions, and burns; antiseptic skin preparation before minor surgical procedures; management of impetigo and other superficial skin infections.
Both benzalkonium chloride and cetrimide are cationic surfactants (quaternary ammonium compounds) that disrupt the cell membranes of bacteria and fungi, leading to their destruction. They have broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against gram-positive bacteria, gram-negative bacteria, and certain fungi.
For external use only. Avoid contact with eyes, ears, and mucous membranes. Should not be used on large areas of burned or broken skin. May cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Not recommended for use in deep wounds or body cavities. May be incompatible with certain soaps and organic matter.
Official drug label
WellAlly may earn a referral fee from linked resources at no extra cost to you. Editorial content is never influenced by commercial relationships.
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 28, 2026. · Read our editorial policy