Benzalkonium Chloride Antiseptic Towelettes Slip into Recall Disaster

For most, daily bacteria-fighting routines involve wiping, swabbing, and spraying generous amounts of antiseptic onto any potentially germy surface. With its frequent and widespread use, it is no wonder that the common antiseptic ingredient, benzalkonium chloride, has been trusted by healthcare providers and patients alike for over 60 years. Manufacturers boast that Benzalkonium chloride antiseptic wipes don’t burn or sting the skin while disinfecting, but recent news shows that they might not be doing much of anything at all. As of July 25, Dukal Corporation has issued a nationwide recall of select products of benzalkonium choloride after their sterility was compromised.

Although formerly seen as a protective barrier between you and countless armies of bacteria, recalled benzalkonium chloride products could actually directly put you at risk for infections. During the manufacturing of these antiseptic towelettes and kits, Dukal claims that Burkholderia cepacia, a pneumonia-causing bacteria, may have contaminated several lots of benzalkonium chloride items. This may not pose much of a concern for most users; however, for persons with a weakened or suppressed immune system, this mix-up could be serious.

So before racing to pull out another handy anti-septic towelette, check the labeling and make sure that the product has not been recalled before putting yourself at risk. Be aware that using contaminated bacteria-fighting products could actually leave you and your loved ones defenseless in a battle against infections.

To find out which lots and products have been recalled or may be unsafe to use, go to the FDA informational site at http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm313912.htm. Keep yourself safe against danger, do not use any items that have been recalled, and be sure to stay informed by checking our site for more details on the hazards of these medications and products.