Benzalkonium Chloride Topical Solution

What is this medication?

BENZALKONIUM CHLORIDE (ben zal KOE nee um klor ide) prevents skin infection. It is often used to clean and disinfect the skin after an injury or before a procedure. It works by killing or preventing the growth of bacteria on the skin.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Bactine, Zephiran

What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• An unusual or allergic reaction to benzalkonium chloride, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• Breast-feeding

How should I use this medication?

This medication is for external use only. It is usually applied by your care team in a hospital or clinic setting. It may also be used at home.

If you get this medication at home, use it exactly as directed. Wash off any soap from the skin before using.

Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

This does not apply if this medication is applied in a hospital or clinic.

If you use this medication at home: If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medication?

• Detergents and soaps

Do not use any other skin products on the same area of skin without talking to your care team.

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medication?

Visit your care team for regular checks on your progress. Tell your care team if your symptoms do not start to get better or if they get worse.

Do not get this medication in your eyes. If you do, rinse out with plenty of cool tap water and seek medical attention.

If this medication is accidentally swallowed, seek immediate medical attention.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

• Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

• Burning or pain at application site
• Mild skin irritation, redness, or dryness

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medication?

Keep out of the reach of children and pets.

Store between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Keep this medication in the original container. Keep the container tightly closed. Get rid of any unused medication after the expiration date.

To get rid of medication that are no longer needed or have expired:

• Take the medication to a medication take-back program. Check with your pharmacy or law enforcement to find a location.
• If you cannot return the medication, check the label or package insert to see if the medication should be thrown out in the garbage or flushed down the toilet. If you are not sure, ask your care team. If it is safe to put it in the trash, empty the medication out of the container. Mix the medication with cat litter, dirt, coffee grounds, or other unwanted substance. Seal the mixture in a bag or container. Put it in the trash.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.