PCMX is an antimicrobial chemical compound used as a
preservative to control bacteria, algae, and fungi in adhesives, emulsions,
paints, cooling fluids, glue, cosmetics, hygiene products such as hair
conditioners and deodorants, topical medications, urinary antiseptics and metal
working fluids. Liquid PCMX solutions
are used for cleaning and disinfecting wounds, abrasions and abscesses while
creams are used for cuts, scratches, insect bites, and burns. Powders are used
to treat problems of the feet and skin inflammations.
PCMX is used in 0.5% to 4% in antiseptic formulations and
has low level of antimicrobial activity. Its effectiveness is also very
formulation dependant in terms of use along with other active agents. Disruption of cell membrane potentials is the
main mechanism by which PCMX prevents pathogenic activity.
Resistance among pathogens to PCMX have been reported,
with biofilm generating pathogens being the most resistant. Bacteria sourced from industrial locations
such as, P. stutzeri and A. johnsonii, have been shown to be more resistant to
PCMX family of disinfectants. Many virus
types have been found to be resistant to pure forms of PCMX in low
concentrations; however when formulated with other active ingredients can
overcome the resistance.
Acute oral toxicity of pure PCMX has been reported for
mice with LD50 of 1g/kg of body weight; however it imposes very low to no
toxicity in low dilutions. It is a mild skin irritant and may trigger allergic
reactions in some individuals. Various
forms of dermatitis have been reported when using PCMX on skin surfaces.
Long term biodegradation may produce hazardous
by-products; however the degradation products are as hazardous as PCMX
itself. Biodegradation in activated
sludge is slow, with only 40% of a 10 ppm solution taking 7 days to
decompose. Bioaccumulation in aquatic
organisms’ body is moderate, however still posing adverse effects.
Here’s how we would score PCMX on the key decision making
criteria:
• Speed of Disinfection – B
o Contact times will be dependent upon concentration and
formulation
o Hand Sanitizing formulations generally carry a 30 second sanitizing claims
• Spectrum of Kill – B to C
o Efficacy against bacteria, viruses and fungi has been
shown but is dependent upon formulation and concentration
• Cleaning Effectiveness – C
o Cleaning efficacy of PCMX comes from the addition of
surfactants to formulations
• Safety Profile – B
o PCMX not significantly toxic to humans and other
mammals, is practically non-toxic to birds.
o It is a mild
skin irritant and may trigger allergic reactions in some individuals
• Environmental Profile – D
o Bioaccumulative in the environment and reacts to form
more toxic by-products
o Moderately toxic to freshwater invertebrates and highly
toxic to fish
• Cost Effectiveness – B to C
o Products are available from a number of suppliers
**For more in-depth scientific information about Alcohol
and other disinfectant chemistries, stay tuned to
www.infectionpreventionresource.com.
Bugging Off!
Nicole
