cetylpyridinium

Cetylpyridinium is a quaternary ammonium compound with broad-spectrum antiseptic properties. It is primarily used to reduce dental plaque and gingivitis and can also help whiten teeth. The most common form in medicinal products is cetylpyridinium chloride. This compound acts as a cationic disinfectant and surfactant with rapid bactericidal effects on gram-positive bacteria and fungicidal activity against yeasts. Its mechanism involves disrupting microbial cell membranes leading to cell death. Cetylpyridinium is found in various oral care products such as mouthwashes, toothpastes, lozenges, throat sprays, breath sprays, and nasal sprays[1][3][5]. It generally exerts only local effects due to poor systemic absorption[1].

Brand names

Cepacol Antibacterial MouthwashCrest Pro-Health Clean MintCrest Pro-Health Cool WintergreenOrajel Bleeding Gum RinseOrasep Reformulated Dec 2013GoodSense Oral RinseCrest Pro-Health Bacteria GuardCrest Pro-Health Clinical Deep Clean Mint

Other names

cetylpyridinium chloride