Benzyl dihydroxyethyl cocoalkyl ammonium chloride
Chemical Name
- Benzyl-dihydroxyethyl-cocoalkyl-ammonium chloride
IUPAC / CAS
Benzyl dihydroxyethyl cocoalkyl ammonium chloride / 61789-68-2
Physical and Chemical Properties
Benzyl dihydroxyethyl cocoalkyl ammonium chloride is a liquid which is stable at room temperature.
Mode of Action
It is a quaternary ammonium compound agent, cationic in nature and has disinfectant and antiseptic properties. It is a membrane active agent that binds to key compounds of the cytoplasmic membrane and increases the cell permeability. The loss of structural integrity of the cell causes cell death.
Activity Spectrum
They are bactericidal agents with better activity against the gram positive organisms than gram negative organisms. This compound is mycobacteriostatic and not cidal in nature. It shows good activity against the enveloped viruses. It is also sporistatic in nature and hence cannot be considered a high level disinfectant.
Advantages
- Extremely effective for surface cleaning
Disadvantages
- Does not provide a good gram negative cover
- Mycobacteriostatic and sporistatic
Toxicity and Side Effects in Humans
It is known to cause contact allergy and irritation when it comes in contact with the mucosal surfaces or the skin in concentrated solutions.
Regulatory Information
Occupational exposure limits have not yet been determined.
Safety Measures
When handling benzyl-dihydroxyethyl-cocoalkyl-ammonium chloride one must wear protective clothing and goggles to protect the eyes and gloves to protect the hands. The compound must be stored in a cool and dry place away from food.
First Aid Treatment
- On accidental contact with the skin, benzyl-dihydroxyethyl-cocoalkyl-ammonium chloride causes redness,skin burns and pain.Wash the area with plenty of cold water for at least 15 minutes.
- If benzyl-dihydroxyethyl-cocoalkyl-ammonium chloride comes in contact with the eyes , wash the eyes near the eye station with plenty of cold water. It is advisable to visit an ophtahlmic surgeon to assess the extent of injury .
- On accidental ingestion, do not induce vomitting as there is danger of causing esophageal tear and bleeding. The patient may need to be under medical observation for at least 24 hours to prevent complications.
- When inhaled benzyl-dihydroxyethyl-cocoalkyl-ammonium chloride corrodes the respiratory mucosa. The person may need respiratory support and needs to be under strict medical supervision as pulmonary odema may set in many hours after the accidental inhalation of the fumes.
References
- McDonnell G, Russell D. Antiseptics and Disinfectants: Activity, Action and Resistance. Clin Microbiol Rev 1999; 12(1): 147 - 179
