Cetylpyridinium Chloride (CPC)

Cetylpyridinium Chloride (CPC) – Quaternary Ammonium Antiseptic for Oral Care

Basic Information

• Chemical Name: Cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC)

• Molecular Formula: C₂₁H₃₈ClN

• Molecular Weight: 340.0 g/mol

• Appearance: White to off-white crystalline powder

• Solubility: Soluble in water, alcohol, and propylene glycol

• pH (1% solution): Typically 5.0–7.0

Overview
Cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC) is a cationic quaternary ammonium compound with broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity. It is widely recognized for its efficacy in oral care products, where it helps reduce plaque, gingivitis, and oral malodor. Its mechanism involves disrupting microbial cell membranes, leading to rapid cell lysis and death.

Mechanism of Action
CPC acts by adsorbing to negatively charged bacterial cell surfaces, penetrating the cell membrane, and causing leakage of intracellular components. It also denatures proteins and enzymes, contributing to its bactericidal and fungicidal effects. This makes it effective against a wide range of Gram‑positive and Gram‑negative bacteria, as well as yeasts.

Applications

• Oral care: Mouthwashes, toothpastes, throat sprays, and dental rinses for plaque control, gingivitis prevention, and breath freshening.

• Pharmaceuticals: Preservative and antimicrobial agent in topical formulations and ophthalmic solutions.

• Cosmetics: Used as a preservative in creams, lotions, and personal care products.

• Industrial: As a biocide in water treatment and surface disinfection.

Key Benefits

• Effective at low concentrations (0.05–0.1% in oral care).

• Broad-spectrum activity against bacteria and fungi.

• Provides long-lasting antimicrobial effect.

• Non-staining and well-tolerated at recommended levels.

• Stable and compatible with many formulation ingredients.

Safety and Precautions

• May cause mild irritation in sensitive individuals; avoid prolonged contact with mucosa at high concentrations.

• Incompatible with anionic surfactants (forms precipitates).

• Use appropriate personal protective equipment (gloves, safety goggles) when handling.

• Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area, away from light and strong oxidizers.

Packaging
Available in 1 kg, 5 kg, 25 kg containers, and custom packaging upon request.

Quality Assurance
Each batch is tested for purity (by HPLC), water content, and antimicrobial efficacy to ensure consistent quality.