FDA Reviewing Safety of Triclosan

On April 8, 2010, the FDA addressed the chemical triclosan on their website (in the Consumer Updates section). Many of us have heard for some time now that triclosan, an ingredient used as a preservative to decrease or halt the growth of bacteria, fungi or mildew, can be harmful to our health, the environment and may be responsible for making bacteria resistant to antibiotics. This ingredient can be found in many common household products including: antibacterial soaps, body washes, toothpastes, cosmetics, deodorant, shaving cream and much more. Both the EPA and FDA, the authorities responsible for regulating triclosan, state that triclosan is NOT harmful to humans and in recent news, the FDA has stated that more research is being conducted to verify its safety and efficacy.It’s simply amazing how many products we use that contain this chemical….SoftSoap, Dawn, Dial, Colgate, Crest, Bath and Body works hand soaps, and that’s just scratching the surface. Did you know that triclosan is also found in plastics used for toys, in kitchenware and fabrics used for clothing and other household items? When you see the label Microban®, think triclosan. That was news to me, but I guess I never really knew or paid too much attention. Now, I’m curious exactly how many products in my home utilize this chemical.

Over the years, I have significantly reduced my exposure to a variety of chemicals by using natural and eco-friendly personal care products and cleaning products, but apparently, that’s not enough. As I was writing this blog, I went to the store to pick up a couple items and wouldn’t you know it, I bought some towels (because they were on sale) which contain the same ingredient that I have been writing about. The tag was labeled: Microban®. Shhhessshhh….unknowingly, I’ve been using the same brand of towels for months! That’s what happens when you don’t buy organic.

What’s the problem with triclosan? Although it’s usage has been found be beneficial for use in hospitals, it’s use for healthy households has been discouraged. Triclosan is very effective in killing both good and bad bacteria. Killing off good bacteria leaves the surface vulnerable to the development of other harmful bacteria which our bodies would be defenseless to combat. Other possible health concerns:
•New strains of bacteria and viruses can form rendering them resistant to current treatments.
•Animal studies suggest that triclosan can disrupt hormone regulation (resulting in reproductive and developmental problems).
•Can cause skin irritations and/or dermatitis.
•May induce allergic or asthmatic response.

There are also environmental concerns to consider. For example:
•When exposed to sunlight, triclosan can convert to dioxin, a hazardous carcinogenic chemical. Dioxin is linked to a multitude of health and environmental problems.
•When mixed with chlorine from tap water (when washing your hands with antibacterial soap containing triclosan), chloroform gas, another carcinogenic health concern, can form.
•When found in our water system, this chemical can be detrimental to our ecosystem especially our marine life.

The FDA has determined that there is benefit to using this chemical, just not to the extent that we have been using it. I am willing to bet that this isn’t the last time we hear about triclosan. Until the FDA has done more research, I know I will be more aware of the products that I purchase both for my family and our environment.

EPA: Triclosan Facts
The Ubiquitous Triclosan: A Common Antimicrobial Agent Exposed
Triclosan
Triclosan: What Consumers Should Know
Wikipedia: Triclosan

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Babies 411 is an on-line information and resource center for parents. This site has been developed by a neonatal intensive care nurse with the sole purpose of promoting the health, safety, and well-being of all babies.

Author : Diba Tillery RN, BSN, IBCLC, CPST