"Despite
their recent proliferation
in consumer products, the use of antimicrobial agents such as triclosan
in consumer products has not been studied extensively. No data exist to
support
their efficacy or necessity in consumer products, but increasing data
suggest growing acquired resistance to these
commonly used antimicrobial agents... Studies also exist showing
that acquired resistance to these antimicrobials in bacteria may
predispose these organisms to resistance
against therapeutic antibiotics... In
light of these findings, there is little
evidence to support the use of antimicrobials in consumer products such
as topical hand lotions and soaps." – American
Medical Association's Council on Scientific Affairs,
June 2000
Triclosan
is an antibacterial agent
which is
currently present in a wide variety of household products,
including toothpastes, soaps, and cosmetics. In
1966, the
year Triclosan was invented, it was believed to
destroy
bacteria in such a way that they could not gain immunity
against
it. Recent research however, has discovered that it is
possible
for bacteria to become resistant to Triclosan - possibly through only a
single gene mutation. Triclosan
is potentially a life
saving drug when used properly. When abused, it carries with
it
all the dangers of antibiotic misuse.
It is important that all
consumers understand exactly what Triclosan
is, especially the results of recent scientific research. Only in
the most extreme cases should Triclosan containing products be employed
in the home.
News: On October 20, 2005, the
FDA Nonprescription Drugs Advisory Committee decided, in an 11 to 1
vote, that antibacterial
soaps have not been demonstrated to be more effective than the use of
plain soap in reducing infection rates. They also suggested that
the FDA require studies to demonstrate their benefit over and above
alcohol based products and soap and water due to the possibility of "widespread development of antibacterial resistance". Transcript Excerpts Sign
The StopTriclosan Petition
