myristalkonium

Myristalkonium is a quaternary ammonium compound with antiseptic and spermicidal properties. It is primarily used as a spermicide in vaginal contraceptives, such as the product Pharmatex. Myristalkonium acts by disrupting microbial cell membranes, leading to increased permeability and cell lysis, which underlies its broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against bacteria, fungi, and viruses. In contraceptive use, it is absorbed only on the surface of the vaginal walls and does not pass into maternal milk. Adverse effects may include burning, itching, or contact dermatitis[1][2][6][8].

Brand names

Pharmatex

Other names

myristalkonium chloridebenzyl (tetradecyl) dimethyl ammonium chloridetetradecyldimethylbenzammonium chlorideBZK-C14BZK-C-14BZK-C 14zephiramine