Bishydroxyethyl Dihydroxypropyl Stearammonium Chloride
Bishydroxyethyl Dihydroxypropyl Stearammonium Chloride is a cationic quaternary ammonium compound classified as a pin-variant agent. This surfactant-based medication functions primarily as a conditioning and antimicrobial agent, commonly formulated in topical, ophthalmic, or nasal preparations for various indications. The compound's specific clinical applications depend on its concentration and delivery formulation, though it is frequently used in preservative systems and as an active ingredient in certain dermatological and mucosal treatments.
A cationic surfactant medication used as a conditioning agent and preservative in topical and ophthalmic preparations.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 1494974
- Generic
- Bishydroxyethyl Dihydroxypropyl Stearammonium Chloride
- Class
- pin-variant
- 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.
Dosage and administration
- Usual dose
- N/A
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- N/A
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- N/A
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- N/A
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- N/A
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- N/A
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
Overdose information
Special Populations
8 groupspregnancy
first trimesterno specific adjustment needed for topical use
use as directed in cosmetic products; avoid concentrated formulations
standard prenatal care
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pregnancy
second third trimesterno specific adjustment needed
continue standard use of rinse-off products; minimize leave-on product exposure
standard prenatal care
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
lactation
breastfeedingno adjustment needed
safe for use in personal care products; rinse thoroughly before nursing if applied to breast area
standard
pediatric_age
infantsuse mild, age-appropriate formulations
avoid use on broken or irritated skin; use products specifically formulated for infants
monitor for skin irritation
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pediatric_age
children 2 12no adjustment needed
use as directed on age-appropriate products
standard
geriatric
elderly over 65no adjustment needed
safe for use in personal care products
standard
renal_impairment
mild to moderateno adjustment needed
no special precautions required for topical cosmetic use
standard
hepatic_impairment
anyno adjustment needed
no special precautions required for topical cosmetic use
standard
Statistics and clinical data
Chemical class
Chemical classification based on molecular structure
Primary applications
Common industrial and cosmetic applications
Regulatory classification
Regulatory status in United States
Prescription status
Prescription status information
Used in various topical and ophthalmic formulations; may serve as a preservative in multi-dose containers or as an active conditioning agent. Specific clinical indications vary by formulation and concentration. Consultation with prescribing information is essential for approved uses.
Functions as a cationic surfactant with antimicrobial properties. The quaternary ammonium structure allows interaction with cell membranes of microorganisms and skin/mucosal surfaces, providing conditioning effects and potential antimicrobial activity. Mechanism is not fully specified in available literature.
Not for injection. May cause irritation in sensitive individuals. Avoid contact with eyes unless specifically formulated for ophthalmic use. Limited clinical data available for this specific compound; prescribing information should be consulted for complete safety guidance. May interact with other anionic compounds in formulations.
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 24, 2026. · Read our editorial policy