What is PHMB made of?

It is most commonly used as a biocide, but is also an important drug used in several topical applications. PHMB is composed of repeating basic biguanidine units connected by hexamethylene hydrocarbon chains, providing a cationic and amphipathic structure.

What is PHMB used for?

Polyhexamethylene biguanide (PHMB) is an antiseptic with antiviral and antibacterial properties used in a variety of products including wound care dressings, contact lens cleaning solutions, perioperative cleansing products, and swimming pool cleaners.

What ingredient makes mouthwash antibacterial?

Antimicrobials in mouthrinse formulations include chlorhexidine, chlorine dioxide, cetylpyridinium chloride, and essential oils (e.g., eucalyptol, menthol, thymol, and methyl salicylate). Other agents used in mouthrinses to inhibit odor-causing compounds include zinc salts, ketone, terpene, and ionone.

Is PHMB an antibiotic?

PHMB can be considered an antiseptic rather than an antibiotic. Antiseptics have been in use much longer than antibiotics yet resistance to antiseptics is less of a problem. They have multiple targets of action which render bacteria less likely to generate resistance mechanisms (Gilbert, 2006).

Why is PHMB banned?

PHMB is used as a preservative in cosmetics. The substance however is allergenic and has been classified by the EU in 2013 as a suspected carcinogen to humans. In June 2014, the EU’s Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety was unanimous in its conclusion that PHMB is not safe for consumers.

Is polyhexamethylene biguanide safe?

“Polyaminopropyl Biguanide (PHMB) is not safe for consumers when used as a preservative in all cosmetic products up to the maximum concentration of 0.3%. The safe use could be based on a lower use concentration and/or restrictions with regard to cosmetic products’ categories.

What ingredients are best in mouthwash?

Ingredients like essential oils, cetylpyridinium, and chlorhexidine are known to reduce bacteria. Fluoride is another essential mouthwash ingredient that is good for your oral health.

Is PHMB safe?

How does PHMB exert its antimicrobial action?

Testing has demonstrated that exposure to PHMB causes viral cells to clump together, forming aggregates. This prevents invasion into the host cells, making PHMB a potent antiviral treatment in wound care (Pinto et al, 2009). However, studies have shown that the product is safe in clinical use.

Is PHMB Banned in the USA?

PHMB use in personal-care products is legal in the USA, and according to Drs.

Is PHMB banned in EU?

In June 2014, the EU’s Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety was unanimous in its conclusion that PHMB is not safe for consumers. As a result, the EU chose to ban PHMB’s use in personal care products from January 2015. BEUC wants cosmetic products to be safe for consumers.