Antibacterial Wash Products Do Not Promote Antibiotic Resistance

Copyright 1998 PR Newswire, Inc.
August 10, 1998


NEW YORK, Aug. 10 /PRNewswire/ -- Antibacterial wash products containing triclosan have been used by consumers and medical professionals in homes and hospitals for more than 30 years. Based on these three decades of research and actual user experience, triclosan has never been shown to promote antibiotic resistance.

In fact, recently an FDA advisory panel determined that antibiotic resistance due to the use of antibacterial wash products is not a public health concern. As recently as last month, two independent hospital infection control researchers presented studies to the FDA showing that triclosan-based wash products have controlled and reversed outbreaks of resistant bacteria infections in hospitals -- an environment where bacterial resistance is continually monitored.

The soap and detergent industry and the cosmetics industry are fully confident that consumers can continue to safely use antibacterial hand and body wash products.

NOTE TO EDITORS: The Soap and Detergent Association (SDA) is the national trade association representing approximately 140 North American manufacturers of cleaning products, their ingredients and finished packaging. SDA member companies produce more than 90% of the household, industrial and institutional cleaning products marketed in the U.S.

CTFA is the national trade association representing the cosmetic, toiletry and fragrance industry. Founded in 1894, CTFA has an active membership of approximately 300 companies that manufacture or distribute the vast majority of finished personal care products marketed in the United States. CTFA also includes approximately 300 associate member companies, including manufacturers of raw materials, trade and consumer magazines, and other related industries.

SOURCE: The Soap and Detergent Association
CONTACT: Janet Donohue of SDA, 212-725-1262, or Irene Malbin of
CTFA 202-331-1770

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