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Study Suggests Antibacterial Products May Contribute to Antimicrobial Resistance
A viewpoint study published in Environmental Science & Technology indicates that biocides in household products, such as quaternary ammonium compounds and chloroxylenol, may promote antimicrobial resistance. Researchers reviewed existing studies and found these chemicals can lead to bacteria becoming resistant to both biocides and clinical antibiotics.
Apr 8, 8:00 AM·2m read1 source
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A new viewpoint study has examined the role of biocides in household products and their potential link to antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Biocides are chemical or biological agents used to control harmful organisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and algae.
These substances appear in products like antibacterial hand soaps, disinfecting wipes, spray cleaners, laundry sanitizers, textiles, and personal care items.
The study, published in the journal Environmental Science & Technology, analyzed existing research on biocides such as quaternary ammonium compounds (QACs), also known as quats, and chloroxylenol. QACs serve as disinfectants, sanitizers, and preservatives, while chloroxylenol acts as an antiseptic and disinfectant on skin or surfaces.
The researchers concluded that exposure to these biocides can promote AMR, where bacteria develop resistance to the agents and potentially to clinical antibiotics.
bacteria gain resistance to biocides, they may also resist antibiotics used in medical settings, raising the risk of severe illness, disability, or death.
The study highlights risks to human and environmental health from widespread use of these products. It notes that actual health impacts could vary based on product concentrations and usage patterns. The research establishes an association between biocide use and AMR but does not prove causation, as it relies on a review of prior studies rather than new experiments.
Lead author Rebecca Fuoco, director of science communications at the Green Science Policy Institute and a doctoral student at Johns Hopkins University, stated that the work synthesizes existing evidence without generating new data.
