Benzalkonium is a quaternary ammonium compound used as a biocide, a cationic surfactant, and as a phase transfer agent.
Benzalkonium chloride (BAC) is a widely used biocidal agent in health care, mainly in surface disinfectants and disinfectant cleaners.
Used in pharmaceutical applications such as eye, ear, and nasal drops or sprays as an excipient ingredient serving as an antimicrobial preservative. When used as an ingredient in antiseptic and disinfectant products it is an active antimicrobial agent.
When used as an active ingredient in products like antibacterial, antiseptic, or disinfectant soaps, topical sanitizers, or cleaning agents, benzalkonium is primarily implemented in its salt form, benzalkonium chloride, where it may often be the only active ingredient present and indicated for the primary purpose of topical washing to decrease bacteria on skin.
