Cetylpyridinium chloride

Common card · No. 229084

Cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC) is a cationic quaternary ammonium used in some types of mouthwashes, toothpastes, lozenges, throat sprays, breath sprays, and nasal sprays. It is an antiseptic that kills bacteria and other microorganisms. It has been shown to be effective in preventing dental plaque and reducing gingivitis. It has also been used as an ingredient in certain pesticides. Though one study seems to indicate cetylpyridinium chloride does not cause brown tooth stains, at least one mouthwash containing CPC as an active ingredient bears the warning label "In some cases, antimicrobial rinses may cause surface staining to teeth," following a failed class-action lawsuit brought by customers whose teeth were stained. The name breaks down as: cetyl- refers to the cetyl group, named for its relation to cetyl alcohol, which was first isolated from whale oil (Latin: cetus); pyridinium refers to the cation [C5H5NH]+, the conjugate acid of pyridine; chloride refers to the anion Cl−.

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