Cetylpyridinium chloride

Cetylpyridinium chloride (CAS 123-03-5), commonly abbreviated as CPC, is a quaternary ammonium compound used as an antimicrobial active and preservative across pharmaceutical and personal care manufacturing. It delivers broad-spectrum biocidal activity against bacteria, fungi, and some viruses, making it a go-to active ingredient where surface-active preservation is required for various formulations.

In oral care, CPC is the active ingredient in antiseptic mouthwashes, throat lozenges, and medicated sprays, where it reduces oral bacterial load and controls plaque effectively. Personal care formulators incorporate it into shampoos, skin cleansers, and conditioning products for its combined antimicrobial and surfactant properties in diverse consumer goods.

Pharmaceutical manufacturers use it as a preservative in topical formulations and as an active in over-the-counter antiseptic products subject to specific regulatory monographs. It also functions as a dispersing and emulsifying agent in certain industrial and cosmetic systems where controlled microbial stability is a simultaneous requirement for the product.

Cetylpyridinium chloride is supplied as a white crystalline powder or as an aqueous solution. Standard grades include USP, BP, and Ph. Eur., supporting direct use in regulated applications. These high-purity grades ensure compliance with global pharmacopeia requirements. Technical-grade material is also available for non-regulated industrial uses and general manufacturing needs.