Chlorothymol

Chlorothymol is a chlorinated derivative of thymol primarily utilized as a potent antiseptic and disinfectant in oral care and topical pharmaceutical preparations [1, 10]. It exerts broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity by disrupting microbial cell membranes and inhibiting biofilm formation [1, 5]. Beyond its antiseptic properties, research has identified chlorothymol as a positive allosteric modulator of the GABA-A receptor, suggesting potential anticonvulsant applications [5, 8, 9]. It also demonstrates antiplasmodial activity by inducing lethal oxidative stress in parasites through the inhibition of glutathione-related enzymes, such as glutathione S-transferase and glutathione reductase [5]. While effective, it is known to be a significant irritant to the skin, eyes, and mucous membranes at higher concentrations [2, 10]. Consequently, its use is typically restricted to low concentrations in regulated cosmetic and medicinal products [2].

Other names

6-Chlorothymol4-Chlorothymol4-chloro-2-isopropyl-5-methylphenolMonochlorthymol4-chloro-5-methyl-2-(propan-2-yl)phenol

Disruption of microbial cell membranes; positive allosteric modulation of GABA-A receptors; inhibition of glutathione S-transferase and glutathione reductase