Denatonium Benzoate Anhydrous
Denatonium Benzoate Anhydrous is an extremely bitter quaternary ammonium compound used as an aversive agent rather than a therapeutic medication. It is added to hazardous household and industrial products—including denatured alcohol, antifreeze, and pesticides—to prevent accidental or intentional ingestion, particularly by children or individuals at risk of substance misuse.
A non-toxic bittering agent added to potentially dangerous substances to deter accidental or intentional ingestion.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 1313231
- Generic
- Denatonium Benzoate Anhydrous
- 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.
Denatonium Benzoate Anhydrous is not used to treat medical conditions but serves as an aversive additive in toxic household products, industrial chemicals, and sometimes medications to prevent dangerous ingestion. It is particularly valuable in products where children's safety is a concern or where substance misuse prevention is needed.
This compound works by triggering intense bitterness through bitter taste receptors (T2Rs) in the oral cavity and upper GI tract. Its bitterness is extraordinarily potent—one of the most bitter compounds known—with detection thresholds in the parts-per-billion range. This intensely unpleasant taste deters ingestion before toxic amounts can be consumed.
Denatonium Benzoate is considered non-toxic at the concentrations used for aversion purposes and is approved for use in food and consumer products in many countries. It is colorless and nearly odorless, making it ideal for adding to products without altering their appearance or smell. The bittering effect serves as a first-line safety measure and should not replace proper child-resistant packaging and safe storage practices.
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 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy