Triclosan - A controversial antibacterial

Triclosan (5 chloro - 2 - (2, 4 dichlorophenoxy)- phenol) is a chlorinated compound which has functional groups representative of bothether and phenols. It is a potent wide spectrum antibacterial and antifungal agent. It was recently shown to target a specific bacterial fatty acid biosynthetic enzyme, enoyl-[acyl carrier protein] reductase, in Gram negative and Gram positive bacteria, as well as in the Mycobacteria. Triclosan is used in many common household products including Clearsil Daily face wash, Dentyl face wash, Dentyl mouth wash, Colgate total range, Sensodyne total care etc. Reports have suggested that Triclosan reacts with the free chlorine in tap water to produce lesser compounds like 2,4 dichlorophenol which converts into Dioxins upon exposure to UV radiation and these dioxins are extremely toxic and are very potent endocrine disruptor. However, further research may be needed before we arrive at a final conclusion.