Triclosan

Triclosan, similar in its uses and mechanism of action to triclocarban, is an antibacterial and antifungal agent found in numerous consumer products, including soaps, detergents, toys, and surgical cleaning treatments. Its efficacy as an antimicrobial agent and the risk of antibacterial resistance remains controversial. Additional research seeks to understand its potential effects on organism and environmental health.
Uses
Triclosan initially was used as hospital scrub in the 1970s. Since then, it has expanded commercially and now is prevalent in soaps (0.10-1.00%), shampoos, deodorants, toothpastes, mouth washes, and cleaning supplies. It is also incorporated into an increasing number of consumer products, such as kitchen utensils, toys, bedding, socks, and trash bags.
In healthcare, triclosan is used in surgical scrubs and personnel hand washes. Use in surgical units is effective with a minimum contact time of approximately two minutes. More recently...